Watch Sewing Hope

Sewing Hope is a 2015 documentary film about the life of Sister Rosemary Nyirumbe and her efforts to provide education and rehabilitation to young girls who have been victims of brutal violence and sexual abuse in Uganda. The film begins by introducing the audience to Sister Rosemary, a Catholic nun who has dedicated her life to helping girls who have been forced to become soldiers, sex slaves, or child brides by the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), a rebel group led by Joseph Kony. Sister Rosemary runs a school called Saint Monica's Girls Tailoring Center, which provides vocational training in sewing and embroidery to girls who have been rescued from the LRA or other abusive situations.

Throughout the film, we follow Sister Rosemary as she travels to different parts of Uganda to meet with young girls who are still living in fear or have recently escaped from the LRA. We witness the trauma that these girls have endured, as they describe their experiences of being abducted, beaten, and forced to kill or steal for the rebel group. Some of the girls are missing limbs or have been disfigured by the violence they have suffered.

Despite the challenges that they face, Sister Rosemary and her team of teachers and volunteers are determined to help these girls rebuild their lives. Through the vocational training program, the girls are given an opportunity to learn a trade that can help them become self-sufficient and independent. They learn how to sew dresses, skirts, bags, and other items that can be sold in the local market, giving them a source of income and a sense of accomplishment.

The film also highlights the role that Sister Rosemary plays as an advocate for these girls. She travels to the United States to speak at universities and other events, sharing the stories of the girls she has worked with and raising awareness about the ongoing conflict in Uganda. She meets with politicians and activists, urging them to take action to bring peace to her country and to support programs like Saint Monica's that are helping to rebuild communities affected by violence.

One of the most inspiring aspects of Sewing Hope is the resilience and strength of the girls who are featured in the film. Despite the horrors that they have experienced, they remain hopeful and determined to create a better future for themselves and their families. Through their hard work and dedication, they not only learn valuable skills but also find a sense of purpose and belonging in their community.

Forest Whitaker, an Academy Award-winning actor and social activist, serves as the executive producer of Sewing Hope. His involvement in the film underscores the importance of using media and storytelling to raise awareness about social issues and promote positive change.

Overall, Sewing Hope is a powerful and moving documentary that sheds light on the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Uganda, while also celebrating the courage and resilience of the girls who are fighting against injustice and oppression. Sister Rosemary's work is an inspiration to all of us, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is hope and the potential for healing and growth.