Our Aotearoa - Episode One

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Producer | Director: Monica Cordero

 

Singing is a large part of Lala's identity and Madagascan culture. Arriving in New Zealand, she felt isolated and alone. Through her resilience, she found her voice, creating a women's community choir in Wellington, which performs songs from Madagascar and all over the world.

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Our Aotearoa is an animated documentary series that speaks to the immigrant experience in Aotearoa, New Zealand, but universally, the immigrant experience world wide.

 

Many may not know or understand the internal and external conflicts people face when integrating into a new society & how people cope with this transition. Maintaining connections to one's heritage can be one coping mechanism, whether through food, social media, art, music, or finding an accepting community. Through these connections, one may feel a sense of belonging in an environment that might feel unfamiliar.

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In December 2023 the series was publicly released on RNZ (Radio New Zealand) alongside the short film which weaves the three episodes together, created for the film festival circuit.

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Awards & mentions:

Best New Zealand Short Film - Doc Edge film festival 2022

Bronze Pin - Best. Design Awards New Zealand 2022

Best Animated Short Film - SWAN Perth International Women in Film Festival

Special Mention - International Festival of Ethnological Film Belgrade

Selection - International Migration Environmental Film Festival