Documentary ‘The Audacity to Dream’ Screened At Beverly Hills, Aims For Scholastic Equity

India-West Staff Reporter

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – A thought-provoking new documentary is catalyzing a groundswell of support for overhauling America’s education system. On May 20, the non-profit Vibha and A North Production hosted an exclusive screening of ‘The Audacity to Dream,’ at the Beverly Hills Library, here.  Vibha’s poignant film spotlights the transformative power of learning opportunities.

Directed by Sharon Angel, the documentary follows Manisha, a young girl from rural India determined to become a doctor – her family’s multi-generational dream stymied by lack of access. For Angel, a fellow Indian native who reaped the benefits of education, Manisha’s story was profoundly inspirational.

“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.”

The screening drew a coalition of education advocates, civic leaders, and influencers. Among them 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.

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, who embodies the non-profit’s grassroots efforts.

During the event, Erande participated in several interviews where 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.”

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.”

As “The Audacity to Dream” continues its screening tour, Vibha hopes it will be a clarion call that unites a broad coalition to dismantle systemic barriers.

For more: www.vibha.org/TheAudacitytoDream