- Directed by Ikram Ahmed | Produced by Violet Pictures
- Short Documentary | In Development
Somali British artist ‘Maryam Mursal’ journey told in her own words; her rise to musical megastar status in Somalia to rebuilding life in Europe. A music documentary about a Somali artist journey building and rebuilding herself, it's a migrant's tale.
Director Biography - Ikram Ahmed
Ikram is an award-winning filmmaker and photographer based in London. She is drawn to intimate stories that explore land, memory and resistance. Her films have been supported by British council, Apple creative studios and Together TV. Her debut short documentary, 'Barry the Beekeeper', won several awards including best documentary at BIFA qualify festival and its available on Sky documentaries. Her latest short, 'Skin of the Earth' explored food growers in South London, it is available on Apple TV. Her films have been screened nationally and internationally, with screenings at BFI, Barbican Centre, Blackstar Film Festival, Carthage Film Festival, Safar Film Festival and Houston Cinema Arts.
Director Statement
Growing up in London, the voice of Maryam Mursal filled our home—her songs bridged generations and continents. Seeing her perform and command an audience of different generations sparked a deep need to understand her story, her incredible resilience in building and rebuilding her life against all odds. What struck me most was the echo of my own family's experiences in hers. Her displacement, the unimaginable challenges of fleeing civil war, and her journey rebuilding a new life deeply resonated with my mother and aunts – so many Somali women I know. Even now, the poignant question that remained over the years for Maryam – 'When will you return?' – still echoes in their lives. This film aims to move beyond headlines, offering an intimate perspective on Maryam's artistic journey, exploring resilience and the enduring search for home. Music documentaries powerfully connect us, and I hope her extraordinary story resonates with music lovers.
