Sabelo Khomo knows that telling a personal story can ask something difficult of its creator. It means returning to painful memories, but also finding a way to shape them into meaning.
The 23-year-old filmmaker from Hammarsdale is the only surviving son in his family after the loss of his two older brothers. From that experience came Orì, a film rooted in grief, family and the possibility of hope. The work was selected for the Indie Film Awards in New York, opening a door for Sabelo to attend screenings, meet other filmmakers and build connections in an industry that can feel far away from a rural community.
It is not the first time his work has travelled further than he could. A previous film received international recognition, but the cost of attending meant Sabelo could not be there. This time, his family and supporters are trying to make sure selection can become participation. Behind the campaign is a young filmmaker, a mother who has supported his creative path, and a community story reaching beyond the place where it began.
What people made possible
- Orì grew from a deeply personal family experience.
- The film earned selection for an international programme in New York.
- The campaign helps close the gap between recognition and the cost of participating.
View the campaign
If this story stayed with you, you can view the campaign and decide whether you would like to share it or support it. View the campaign
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