Onyi: The Path to Finding Me Synopsis
The media often portrays unrealistic standards that damage the self-esteem and confidence of those who do not meet “ideal” beauty standards. This film focuses on Onyi, who, despite the pressures of society, is unapologetically herself.
About the Youth Filmmakers
Tamara Sims (14 years old) is a filmmaker and actor. She wrote scripts in 5th grade as part of the “Young Storytellers” program; her script was selected to be performed by professional actors including Jack Black and Keegan-Michael Key, and she wrote a short film which debuted at the El Capitan theater, as part of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” film promotions.
She also participated in the “Movie Makers” program that took place at Sony Studios where she made a film about a female US President. Tamara aims to create documentaries that address environmental issues and social change.
Elissa Fong (16 years old) is a rising senior at South Pasadena High School where she dedicates her time to giving back to the community. She is part of TASSEL, where she teaches English to children in Cambodia through email and FaceTime. S
he is also involved with various community organizations, e.g. the city’s youth commission and WriteGirl, a program that inspires young women to write, and Bring Me Hope, where she attended a summer camp in China caring for disabled orphans. She strives to bring awareness about the medically underserved through her passion for writing and film, and plans to major in film at university and pursue a career in journalism.
Brigette Barrales (17 years old) is a Gen Z with a goal to use education to unlock the best in both the older and younger generations. She aims to use her experience in filmmaking to realize her ideas and meet like minded individuals.
Film Screening Guide
BEFORE YOU WATCH THE FILM, ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS:
- How do you express yourself?
- Have you ever felt the pressure to conform to society’s idea that we all have to have a certain “look” ?
- Have you ever been hesitant to embrace and express your culture?
- What are some things that you can do to express your individuality?
- Do you think that how you view yourself is different from how you really are?
- What gives you, or would give you, strength to be unapologetically you, everyday?
AFTER WATCHING THE FILM, LET’S ASK OURSELVES:
- Are there aspects of your identity you would like to express more?
- When you have negative thoughts about yourself, do you have some tools or friends that you call upon to get back on track?
- Where do you receive the most pressure to conform? At school? At home? At any other places where you are social?
- What words of advice from Onyi will you keep with you?
RESOURCE LIST
BRANDS that are working to defy mainstream beauty standards and promote more realistic and inclusive campaigns
Aerie — Support the #AerieREAL campaign which strives to promote body positivity by casting models with illnesses, disabilities, varying body types and different racial backgrounds. They show that lingerie is for everyone.
https://www.ae.com/aerie-real-life/
Barbie– Barbie recently launched their new line of Barbie Fashionista Dolls which features dolls with various disabilities, body types, hair styles, and skin tones. Barbie is striving to diversify its line of dolls so that it more accurately represents the children who play with the dolls.
https://barbie.mattel.com/en-us/about/fashionistas.html
Dove– Dove started their real beauty campaign and started their self-esteem project in 2004. Through these campaigns, they strive to help young people overcome body image issues, seek out healthy friendships, and to be their best selves.
https://www.dove.com/us/en/dove-self-esteem-project/our-mission.html
READING MATERIALS
Self Love:
“Just Love Yourself: 5 Must-Know Self Love Techniques”- Talks about Positive Affirmations and staying healthy.
“Empowering You to Know Your Worth in Love and Life”- Focuses on healthy relationships, how to overcome insecurities and self consciousness, coping with anxiety and depression, as well as gaining confidence.
- Visit: https://selflovejunkie.co
“30 ways to practice self love and be good to yourself”- lists 30 ways you can begin your self love journey
- Visit–https://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/30-ways-practice-self-love-and-good-yourself.htm
CALL(S) TO ACTION:
On Twitter and Facebook
#Onyithepathtofindingme on #selfexpression WATCH a short doc by #femaleyouth about Onyi, #unapologetic and #empowered. #Loveyourself #bebold #womensvoicesnow #bethechange #empathytoaction @WomensVoicesNow #selflove https://bit.ly/2km0uoz
On Instagram
#Onyithepathtofindingme on #selfexpression. WATCH a short doc by #femaleyouth about Onyi, #unapologetic and #empowered. #Loveyourself, #bebold #womensvoicesnow #bethechange #empathytoaction @Womens_Voices_Now #selflove #individuality https://bit.ly/2km0uoz
2. HOST A SCREENING of this film using this screening guide.
3. LOOK IN THE MIRROR then write down three positive affirmations to start your day! Put them on a piece of paper or post-it, and stick it to your mirror.
4. WEAR CLOTHES THAT YOU LOVE but have been afraid to wear.
5. COMPLIMENT YOUR FRIENDS! They may also be struggling to love themselves.
6. ASK a few trusted people in your life to write a letter of encouragement to you so have you them to look back on later.
7. SUPPORT BRANDS that celebrate diversity, inclusivity, and body positivity: #AerieREAL, ASOS, Dove, Barbie
If you have used this Film Screening Guide, let us know!
