From Congo to Maine to Chicago.

I was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and moved to the United States when I was nine years old.  My family took a leap into an uncertain future and journeyed to Portland, Maine.  Adjusting to speaking English, learning an entirely new culture, leaving everyone we had known, and building relationships with people who had never even heard of our country was not easy.  I began taking refuge in movies and TV shows, which introduced me to the magical medium of cinema. Inspired by what I saw and wanting to find a way to belong in this new world, I began  making short films about my  experiences. Filmmaking quickly became extremely important to me, and I took another uncertain leap to Chicago. There I studied directing and writing at Columbia College Chicago (2017-2021).  During my time in college I made my first festival-ready film, Flowers and Bikes (2020).  The film was shown in a few festivals, most notably, The Savannah College of Art and Design Film Festival as a part of their global shorts forum.

WHY THIS STORY?

Growing up as an immigrant from Congo in Maine, my love for filmmaking and art brought both joy and challenges. I found myself caught between two worlds - the desire to follow my creative passions and the traditional expectations placed upon me. In a community with different customs and values, I often felt torn. On one hand, I wanted to honor my heritage and embrace my cultural identity. On the other hand, I yearned to pursue my artistic dreams and express myself creatively. It was a delicate balance, navigating between societal norms and my own individuality.

Mondele is my personal exploration of these experiences and a way for me to understand myself better. Through the characters in the film, especially the children, I want to shed light on universal themes like identity, belonging, and the quest for understanding. I aim to authentically portray the inner turmoil and resilience that accompany the journey of those who face similar challenges. This film is not just about me; it's an invitation for audiences to reflect on the complexities of navigating multiple cultural identities. Drawing from my own experiences and the inspiration of those around me, I strive to capture the nuances of this universal human struggle. I hope that Mondele fosters empathy and understanding, bridging the gaps between different worlds and fostering a sense of shared humanity

MY ARTISTIC INTENTIONS.

My work is driven by a desire to explore and showcase the diverse experiences, perspectives, and voices that make up our world. As a filmmaker, I am always looking for ways to challenge conventional narratives and push boundaries. I am drawn to stories that explore complex themes and issues. Whether I am working on a narrative film, a documentary, or an experimental project, my goal is always to create something that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

At the heart of my work is a commitment to building community. I believe that film has the power to bring people together, to foster dialogue and understanding, and to inspire change. Whether I am working with a team of collaborators or engaging with audiences, my goal is always to create connections and build relationships.

Ultimately, my artistic intention is to create work that is both impactful and accessible, that speaks to a wide range of audiences, and that has the power to inspire and transform. The artistic significance of MONDELE lies in its intention to challenge the conventional Western approach to filmmaking and storytelling by presenting a unique African perspective. As a filmmaker from a different part of the world, the project is an opportunity to showcase the beauty, and complexity of Congolese culture. As the writer and director of the film, my artistic intention is to craft a compelling and emotionally charged story that resonates with audiences from all backgrounds. The film seeks to represent underrepresented communities and showcase the joy and triumph of black lives