Dambe

Our project addresses the impact area of human rights and social justice by highlighting the cultural significance of Dambe and its role in expressing identity, tradition, and resistance within the Nigerian community. The film aims to elevate voices within the Dambe community, many of whom have been marginalized or misrepresented in broader societal narratives. Through this lens, we hope to shed light on broader issues of economic inequality, cultural preservation, and the resilience of marginalized groups.

The film aims to elevate voices within the Dambe community, many of whom have been marginalized or misrepresented in broader societal narratives. Through this lens, we hope to shed light on broader issues of economic inequality, cultural preservation, and the resilience of marginalized groups.
A critical aspect of our project is the advocacy for fair compensation for Dambe fighters. We believe that the individuals who dedicate their lives to this traditional sport deserve recognition and financial support reflective of their skills and sacrifices. By addressing the economic disparities faced by these athletes, the film aims to contribute to a movement that seeks to ensure they are paid fairly for their worth, thereby promoting social justice within the sport.
By showing the intersection between ancient and modern martial arts, we aim to challenge the audience’s understanding of masculinity, particularly how it relates to strength, honor, and community responsibility.

Our aim is to create a documentary that not only entertains but also educates and enlightens audiences about the rich cultural heritage of Dambe and its significance within Nigerian society. We hope to achieve a deeper understanding and appreciation of this ancient martial art form by showcasing its practitioners, their stories, and the communities that support them. Through “Dambe,” we aspire to bridge cultural divides and foster empathy and respect for diverse traditions. By juxtaposing the experiences of UFC champions with those of traditional Dambe fighters, we aim to highlight the universal themes of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. By leading the way in showcasing diverse cultural narratives like Dambe, we can elevate the Australian film industry globally, demonstrating its capacity for telling compelling stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.

As the director, I have a deep-rooted connection to the martial arts community, stemming from my own personal involvement and passion for the discipline. With years of experience as a martial artist myself, I have built strong relationships and gained access to various martial arts communities, including those practicing Dambe. This firsthand connection allows me to authentically capture the essence of Dambe and its practitioners, ensuring that our documentary resonates with both martial arts enthusiasts and the broader audience alike.
We are currently building partnerships with several key cultural and organizational advisors to ensure the film remains culturally sensitive and accurate. Our notable connections include:

Maxwell Kalu, CEO of African Warriors Fighting Championships: Maxwell is serving as a key advisor, providing access to the Dambe community and helping shape the narrative to accurately reflect the cultural heritage.
African Human Rights Coalition (partnership in progress): Maxwell is in discussions with this NGO to provide insights into how cultural traditions like Dambe intersect with human rights issues in Nigeria.

Our call to action for viewers centers on introspection and reevaluation of their relationship with masculinity, survival, and their loved ones. We urge viewers to reflect on the themes of resilience and survival portrayed in “Dambe” and to reconsider their own perspectives on masculinity and the importance of connection with their loved ones. Through this introspection, we hope to inspire viewers to cultivate deeper relationships, embrace vulnerability, and prioritize the well-being of themselves and their loved ones.