Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy’s Women-focused Program Inspires Next-gen Filmmakers

Run by Patakha Pictures (an initiative of SOC Films) and backed by the British Council and Scottish Documentary Institute, the 2025 program culminated in a Karachi gathering where fellows premiered trailers of their six-month projects. Guided by mentor Noe Mendelle (founding director of the Scottish Documentary Institute), the cohort’s films shine a light on diverse stories: a Seraiki theater performer navigating fading fame (Malangni), a woman fighting for her right to musical tradition (Saaz, Dhee, Azaadi), a trans nohakhwan grappling with mourning (Muntazir), and an activist leading resistance in Balochistan (The Eagle Woman of Balochistan).

In her address, Obaid-Chinoy emphasized her mission to “open doors” for women filmmakers—drawing from her own journey of global opportunities. She highlighted Patakha Pictures’ role in building critical infrastructure for emerging talent, with support from partners like the British Council, USIP, USAID, and private donors expanding access to storytellers in small towns and cities alike.

The program’s impact speaks volumes: since 2022, Patakha has supported 69 filmmakers whose work has screened at over 70 international festivals (New York, Seoul, Montreal, Milan, Canberra) and won more than two dozen awards. “Our filmmakers have proven small investments yield big results,” Obaid-Chinoy noted.

James Hampson, British Council Pakistan’s Country Director, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to empowering women storytellers and strengthening Pakistan’s creative ecosystem—ensuring Story She Tells continues to amplify women’s voices in documentary cinema.