Watch Words of Witness

Words of Witness is a powerful documentary film that delves into the aftermath of the Egyptian Revolution and the role of citizen journalism during this turbulent time. The film follows the story of 22-year-old Heba Afify, an aspiring journalist who was working for a newspaper during the revolution, as she navigates the treacherous world of politics, censorship, and government repression.

Heba's journey begins on January 25, 2011, when thousands of people take to the streets of Egypt to demand the ouster of President Hosni Mubarak. Heba, like many other Egyptians, is inspired by these demonstrations and feels compelled to document the events as they unfold. Armed with a camera and a notebook, she sets out to capture the voices and stories of those who are fighting for their rights and freedoms.

As Heba covers the protests and confronts the harsh reality of state violence and repression, she becomes increasingly disillusioned with the traditional media outlets that refuse to challenge the government's narrative. She begins to see the power of citizen journalism and social media, which allow ordinary citizens to share their stories and experiences with the world. With the help of her friends and colleagues, Heba starts to publish her own stories and reports on Twitter and Facebook, gaining a following and becoming a voice for the people.

Despite the risks and the dangers, Heba continues to report on the revolution, documenting the street battles, the arrests, and the deaths that occur daily. She becomes a witness to history, recording the events that will shape Egypt's future. Her reporting draws the attention of international media outlets, and she is invited to speak at conferences and events around the world.

However, as the revolution enters a new phase and the military takes control of the country, Heba faces new challenges and threats. The government cracks down on dissent, arresting and harassing journalists and activists. Heba is warned that her reporting has made her a target, and she must take precautions to protect herself and her family.

Despite the risks, Heba continues to report on the events in Egypt, providing a rare glimpse into the hopes and struggles of a nation in the midst of a revolution. Through her eyes, we see the power of citizen journalism and the importance of standing up for what is right in the face of oppression and violence.

Words of Witness is a powerful and moving film that captures the human side of the Egyptian Revolution, showing the struggles and sacrifices of those who fought for change. The film offers a nuanced and insightful perspective on the role of citizen journalism in the digital age, and the challenges that journalists and activists face in authoritarian regimes.

The film is expertly crafted, using a mix of evocative footage from the streets of Egypt and intimate interviews with Heba and her friends and colleagues. The director, Mai Iskander, has a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complex political and social dynamics that shaped the revolution.

Overall, Words of Witness is a must-see film for anyone interested in the power of citizen journalism, the role of media in social movements, or the struggle for democracy in the Arab world. It offers a compelling and inspiring portrait of a young journalist who risked everything to tell the truth and speak out for the people of her country.