By: Maria Williams

A thought-provoking new documentary is catalyzing a groundswell of support for overhauling America’s education system. On May 20th, Vibha and A North Production hosted an exclusive screening of “The Audacity to Dream” at the Beverly Hills Library. Vibha’s poignant film highlights the transformative power of learning opportunities, showcasing the impact of education on underprivileged youth.

An Inspirational Journey

Directed by Sharon Angel, the documentary follows Manisha, a young girl from rural India determined to become a doctor—a dream that spans multiple generations in her family but is stymied by a lack of access to education. For Angel, who also hails from India and has benefited greatly from educational opportunities, Manisha’s story resonated deeply.

“I set out to capture Manisha’s journey and underscore how education is not just a privilege but a fundamental human right,” explains Angel. “The film showcases how Vibha equips underprivileged youth like Manisha with quality schooling and English skills to unlock their full potential.”

A Gathering of Advocates

The screening drew a formidable coalition of education advocates, civic leaders, and influencers. Among the attendees was Beverly Hills Vice Mayor Dr. Sharona Nazarian, signaling the city’s prioritization of scholastic reform. Shauna Shapiro represented Showcase Entertainment, while Emmy-winning journalist Stella Inger-Escobedo moderated an insightful panel discussion.

Other notable attendees included Nalini and Daniel Jokmels from Capstone, social justice attorneys Jennifer Sahota and Nileema Gavini of Gavini Law, and Vibha board member Monika Erande. Monika Erande, whose leadership embodies the non-profit’s grassroots efforts, participated in several interviews during the event. She emphasized, “English serves as a global language, essential for international communication. In the context of India, higher education often takes place in English, making it crucial for children to learn the language to access better educational opportunities.”

Highlighting a Global Crisis

Though set in India, the film casts a glaring spotlight on the crisis afflicting American public schools, where two-thirds of children struggle with basic reading literacy. Through Manisha’s perseverance, the documentary encapsulates how access to quality education can transform lives and communities.

“Our children’s futures hinge on equipping them with essential skills like communication and critical thinking to thrive in our rapidly evolving world,” Angel urges. “By fostering collaboration between educators, parents, and stakeholders, we can nurture each student’s unique talents and identities.”

A Call to Action

As “The Audacity to Dream” continues its impactful screening tour, Vibha hopes it will be a clarion call that unites a broad coalition to dismantle systemic barriers. The documentary aims to inspire action and drive change, emphasizing that only by prioritizing equitable, high-quality scholastic opportunities can society empower all children to dream audaciously about their potential.

Vibha’s mission, as highlighted in the film, is to create a world where every child has access to education and the chance to achieve their dreams. The documentary is more than just a story of one girl’s journey; it is a powerful reminder of the importance of educational equity and the need for systemic change in both developing and developed nations.

The film’s message is clear: Education is a fundamental right that should be accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status. By showcasing Manisha’s story, “The Audacity to Dream” serves as a poignant example of what can be achieved when children are given the tools they need to succeed. It underscores the critical role that education plays in breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering the next generation of leaders.

Empowering Future Generations

The documentary also emphasizes the importance of language skills in global education. As Monika Erande pointed out, English is not just a subject but a gateway to higher education and global opportunities. In India, where many higher education institutions use English as the medium of instruction, proficiency in the language can significantly impact a student’s academic and professional prospects.

Vibha’s efforts extend beyond just providing education; they aim to equip children with the skills necessary to thrive in an interconnected world. This includes fostering proficiency in English, which can open doors to further education and employment opportunities, both locally and internationally.

Building a Coalition for Change

The screening event and subsequent discussions highlighted the importance of community involvement in educational reform. It brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, all united by a common goal: to improve educational opportunities for all children. The presence of civic leaders, education advocates, and legal professionals underscored the multifaceted approach needed to tackle the issue of educational inequity.

“The Audacity to Dream” is a testament to the power of storytelling in driving social change. By shedding light on the challenges faced by underprivileged youth and showcasing the transformative power of education, the documentary aims to galvanize support for policies and initiatives that prioritize educational equity.

The film serves as a reminder that the fight for educational equity is far from over. It calls on viewers to take action, whether through advocacy, volunteerism, or supporting organizations like Vibha that are dedicated to making a difference. Only by working together can we create a future where every child has the opportunity to dream audaciously and achieve their full potential.

Published by: Nelly Chavez