Hawanatu Bangura
Hawanatu Bangura is a Sydney-based filmmaker whose work explores issues of identity, belonging, social justice, mental health, and resilience. She has been an award-winning director, writer, and producer in various genres including dance, drama, documentary, animation, and experimental film for over a decade.
In 2017, she was part of the prestigious Screen Producers Australia: One to Watch program. Her films have been screened at numerous festivals such as the Toronto International Film Festival Kids, the Pan African International Film Festival, the Melbourne International Film Festival, the Cleveland International Film Festival, and the Montreal International Black Film Festival.
Her award-winning film "I Am Black and Beautiful" continues to resonate with audiences and streamed on SBS On Demand. She was also an associate producer for the thought-provoking SBS & CJZ documentary "Muslims Like Us."
With a unique blend of creativity, compassion, and resilience, Hawanatu Bangura continues to make a significant impact both on and off the screen. Her work not only entertains but also educates and inspires, challenging audiences to think critically about the world around them and the stories that shape our collective consciousness.
Since 2013, she has worked as a social worker, advocating for vulnerable people in areas such as youth homelessness, disability, domestic violence, mental health, early childhood development, and seniors in residential aged care. Her grassroots work with marginalised communities, combined with her personal experiences as an Afro-Australian woman, inspires her to craft powerful narratives that shed light on social issues often overlooked by mainstream media.
In addition to her filmmaking, Hawanatu is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion within the film industry. She regularly mentors emerging filmmakers and creatives from underrepresented communities, providing them with guidance and support to navigate the industry.
