Romantic sparks fly between the daughters of two opposing politicians in Wanuri Kahiu’s neon-bright story of forbidden love. The first Kenyan film to screen at Cannes, Rafiki follows the story of two teenage girls, Kena and Ziki, whose friendship blossoms into romance.

Street-smart tomboy Kena and rainbow-haired free spirit Ziki both dream of a life beyond the stifling confines of their conservative Nairobi neighbourhood. Torn between the romantic desire to follow their hearts and the pragmatic need to follow their heads, the star-crossed lovers find themselves forced to make an impossible choice between happiness and safety.

Briefly banned in Kenya for its 'intent to promote lesbianism’, it demonstrates great courage in telling queer stories. This trailblazing film signals a new African cinema that is youthful and engaged with pop culture - and is a vital burst of energy and hope.

Screening with

I Am Sheriff

Dir: Teboho Edkins / 2017 / South Africa / 28 mins

Sheriff was born with a girl’s body, but as the grandmother in his film recounts, he refused to wear dresses and always wanted to play with the boys. Through his film and personal narration, Sheriff talks about gender identity and the frustration of being born the ‘wrong’ sex, and receives a remarkably warm response.

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