New documentary ‘My Mother and I’ amplifies Afghanwomen’s voices
Media Release
Sydney AUSTRALIA, 2 March 2026: A new documentary celebrating the resilience, strength, and intergenerational stories of Afghan women officially launched today at a premiere screening event in NSW Parliament House.
My Mother and I: The Untold Stories of Afghan Women highlights the voices of thirteen Afghan mother–daughter pairs, diving into the ups, downs, and in‑between moments of their relationships while offering personal insights into identity, culture, migration, and the bonds that hold them together.
Created by Afghan Women on the Move (AWOTM) in partnership with Mercy Works, the short film is part of a wider effort to elevate Afghan women’s voices. Launching just days before International Women’s Day, it celebrates the opportunity to lift women’s voices.
Maryam Zahid, CEO and Founder of AWOTM, said: “We made this documentary to give Afghan women the space to share their stories in their own words. These stories are a legacy. They celebrate culture, acknowledge challenges, and remind us of our shared humanity.”
The project was made possible through the support of Mercy Works, whose partnership enabled AWOTM to run storytelling workshops, employ skilled facilitators, and create culturally safe spaces for women to share, heal and connect.
Sally Bradley rsm, Executive Director, Mercy Works said: “Mercy Works is proud to partner with Afghan Women on the Move on this powerful documentary. For many of the thirteen Afghan mothers and their daughters, this is the first time they have shared their stories – stories shaped by resilience, courage and hope as they journeyed to Australia and built new lives here.
“By creating safe and respectful spaces for storytelling, the project highlights the healing power of women speaking in their own words. This documentary will help to raise community awareness, deepen cultural understanding and strengthen social cohesion across the broader community.”
The documentary will be available to view online through AWOTM’s platforms in the coming weeks.
ENDS
Click here to download full media release