MARKHAM, Ont. — Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (CCFC) is hosting a free screening in Toronto on, Sunday June 9, of Driving with Selvi, an award-winning documentary by Canadian director, Elisa Paloschi.
An opportunity to raise awareness to the problem of child, early and forced marriage in India, the film shows the 10-year journey of former child bride Selvi as she leaves her violent marriage and goes on to become South India’s first female taxi driver.
“Selvi’s experience highlights the sad reality too many girls in India and around the world face for countless reasons — tradition, poverty and more. We’re working within vulnerable communities, with various stakeholders, to bring these girls and their rights to the forefront,” said CEO of CCFC, Patrick Canagasingham. “We believe every child should have a voice and be free to achieve their full potential. It’s why we’re encouraged by women, like Selvi, who are showing positive change is possible.”
Among numerous festival awards and accolades, Driving with Selvi received Best Documentary Feature at the Atlanta Film Festival, Best of the Fest Audience Choice Award at the Wakefield International Film Festival and the Yorkton Film Festival’s Golden Sheaf award for Best Director (Non-Fiction).
The June 9 screening includes a Q&A with the director, and the CEO of CCFC and CCFC India’s country director, Belinda Bennet, will also be on hand. Light refreshments will be available along with the chance to win raffle prizes.
Doors open at 9:30 a.m. with the feature presentation starting at 10 a.m. at Cineplex Entertainment’s Empress Walk theatre, 5095 Yonge Street, North York. Seating is limited, so reserve your spot by emailing communications@ccfcanada.ca.