The Brink of Dreams documentary film screening and debate
HUM:Global Semester Lecture at docUNight.
We warmly welcome you to join us for the HUM:Global Fall 2025 Semester Lecture. This Semester Lecture is in collaboration with UN City Copenhagen, where we bring The Brink of Dreams, a documentary exploring the link between gender and autonomy, using art as a voice, and the power of creativity to docUNight.
The film follows a group of bold young Egyptian girls as they start a theatre troupe using the streets as a stage. They use their voices to challenge traditional norms and advocate for their right to make decisions about their own lives and bodies.
Through intimate storytelling, the documentary highlights how art can be both a means of voice and a path to rights, while also exploring questions of access, opportunity, and the transformative power of creativity. The film shines a light on the struggles and resilience of girls navigating tradition, gender inequality, and the pursuit of freedom, raising questions about what to do with the power of art once it is produced.
Every year, the world marks the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign beginning on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 25 November and ending on the International Human Rights Day on 10 December. The global campaign raises awareness and inspires action to combat gender-based violence in all its forms. The film screening is the final event in UN City Copenhagen’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. You are also kindly invited to visit the exhibition I was born a girl at UN City Copenhagen prior to attending the Semester Lecture.
Programme
| 16:00 – 16:30 | Arrival at UN City Copenhagen (remember photo ID) |
| 16:30 – 17:00 | Reception in foyer and Visit exhibition I was born a girl |
| 17:00 – 17:10: | Opening remarks by Ulla Müller, Director of UNFPA Nordic Representation |
| 17:10 – 18:50 | Film screening, The Brink of Dreams |
| 18:50 – 19:45 | Interview with Ayman El Amir, film director. Panel discussion with Ayman El Amir (film co-director), Naja Birke (independent theatre practitioner and consultant at Teatercentrum), and Petar Mitric (assistant professor of film studies at UCPH). Moderated by Noa Valentin Katz Søgaard (Head of UN City Communications). |
Registration
NOTE: Spaces are limited and register is required via Eventbrite.
Please make sure to arrive with plenty of time to spare as checking in to the UN building may be time-consuming. Also, remember your photo ID (e.g. driving license, passport, identity card or such).
We look forward to seeing you there.