The "Beyond Borders" team

The documentary “Beyond Borders” was created through a collaborative effort of 10 Ismaili artists under the direction of Ali Shaan Khemani.  It is a true story of Ismaili families who migrated to Montreal, Quebec, fleeing life-threatening conflict in their home countries due to war and extremism.

The film narrates the journey of the families’ struggles and as they left their homes and became stateless.  Those interviewed discuss how over various periods of immigration during the 1970’s, 1990’s, as well as in recent years the Canadian Government welcomed them with open arms, providing space to create a new home. The families share their stories about hardships during the early days of their settlement.  They talk about how the Ismaili community and the Jamati institutions in Canada provided them with support and opportunities to maintain their livelihoods, allowing them a more certain future.  The overarching theme of the film focuses on acceptance, love, and compassion of various peoples despite their diversity, and how we all come together as “One Jamat”.

"Beyond Borders" was featured at the Canadian Jubilee Arts program in Toronto in 2018, and later that year at the International program in Lisbon.  

Since Jubilee Arts many of the team members have continued to pursue their artistic passions individually, creating and collaborating on new music and films, as well as enhancing their respective skills through further education.

Team: