In a world where narratives often overshadow voices of resilience, there are individuals like Sawsan Asfari, a British-Lebanese citizen whose heart is deeply rooted in the struggles of the Middle East. Born to a Palestinian mother and a Lebanese father, Asfari embodies the resilience forged in the face of adversity. eniGma’s Janna Rabie had the chance to do a one-on-one interview with Asfari, the Founder and Producer of Cocoon Films.
Producer and Founder of Cocoon Films Sawsan Asfari founded her company in 2007 with the goal of shedding light on difficult Middle East conflicts, such as the complexity of refugee life and the struggles of Arab individuals, which are typically overlooked. Since then, Cocoons’ scope has expanded to include a wide range of issues and countries, while maintaining its core values of encouraging justice and tolerance.
Asfari has produced award winning films like Wajib, Salt of the Sea, and When I Saw You, and is currently a partner in Louverture films. Her latest production was the movie The Teacher, by Farah Nabulsi.
Growing up amid the tumultuous backdrop of Sidon in Lebanon, Asfari witnessed the beginnings of the civil war, a pivotal moment that redirected the course of her life. What was meant to be a short holiday in London at the age of 12 turned into a permanent relocation, as Lebanon plunged into turmoil. Her displacement, marked by an awareness from a young age of the injustices endured by the Palestinian people, fueled her passion for justice.
Armed with a degree in political science and English literature, and driven by a desire to amplify the voices of the marginalised, Asfari delved into the realm of political lobbying and Palestinian charities in London. Yet, she felt compelled to transcend traditional forms of activism, seeking to harness the power of storytelling to shed light on untold narratives.
In 2016, Asfari founded Cocoon Films, formerly known as Cactus World Films, with a mission to tell stories that often remain unseen. Additionally, Asfari partnered with Louverture Films, an American company producing films centered on human rights and social justice issues close to her heart. Through these endeavors, Asfari aimed to challenge the stereotypes perpetuated by Western media and to provide a platform for authentic Arab narratives.
Reflecting on Asfari’s multifaceted journey, it becomes evident that her contributions extend beyond the realm of filmmaking. As a founder of two educational charities and a staunch advocate for Palestinian rights, Asfari left an indelible mark on various spheres of activism. Every Palestinian film Asfari has been involved in stands as a testament to her commitment to raising awareness and inspiring action in the face of injustice.
Apart from her passion for film and production, Asafri is also the Co-Founder and Trustee of the Asfari Foundation, which aims to help young people make a valuable contribution to society by empowering them through education, research and the power of free thinking.
Her project, Tomorrow’s Freedom, is a documentary chronicling the story of Marwan Barghouthi, often hailed as the Nelson Mandela of Palestine. Tomorrow’s Freedom takes you on a brutally honest and transforming trip through the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Marwan Barghouthi is an elected member of parliament who played a critical role in promoting the Oslo Peace Accords in the 1990s. In 2000, Barghouthi played a crucial role in launching the second Intifada against Israeli occupation. Two years into the Intifada, Israel arrested Barghouthi and accused him of organising terror acts in Tel Aviv. After 1000 days of isolation and a legal case, an Israeli civilian court convicted Barghouthi and sentenced him to five life terms.
Directed and co-produced by Sophia and Georgia Scott, the film offers an intimate portrayal of Barghouthi’s family while shedding light on the plight of Palestinian prisoners. Despite facing numerous challenges, including navigating the complexities of filming under Israeli surveillance and securing funding, the filmmakers remained steadfast in their mission to amplify Barghouthi’s voice and advocate for his release.
While the journey of filmmaking is rife with challenges, from financing to distribution, Asfari remains undeterred in her pursuit of telling stories that resonate with audiences worldwide. Despite initial rejections from festivals, Tomorrow’s Freedom has garnered acclaim, underscoring the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.
Looking ahead, Asfari remains committed to amplifying voices that have long been silenced. With upcoming projects, including a film depicting the Palestinian uprising against British colonial rule in 1936, Asfari continues to champion narratives that deserve to be heard. As she navigates the intricacies of filmmaking and advocacy, Asfari’s journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling in shaping perceptions and inspiring change.
In a world where stories often define our understanding of reality, Asfari serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a more just and inclusive future. Through her unwavering dedication to amplifying marginalised voices, she exemplifies the transformative potential of art in fostering empathy, understanding, and ultimately, catalysing meaningful change.