Melton documentary ‘Reclaimed Voices’ makes its debut in Melbourne

Reclaimed Voices is more than a documentary - it’s a movement that amplifies African Australian youth experiences, and sparks much needed conversations on justice, identity, and systemic change.

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March 26, 2025

On November 19, the African Youth Initiative’s (AYI) powerful documentary Reclaimed Voices hit the screens of the Treasury Theatre.

Transcending its Melton roots, AYI partnered with the Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP), bringing together stakeholders, friends, families and policymakers in a dialogue for systemic change.

Reclaimed Voices confronts the headlines and stereotypes surrounding young African Australians and youth crime, offering an unflinching look at their experiences and challenging public perceptions.

“This film is more than a documentary, it’s a movement,” said Malou Lueth, AYI Treasurer and one of the on-screen stars.

“We confront the issues of youth crime, not by denying it, but by humanising it and peeling back the layers.”

“I realised there is another way of life, there is a light in the tunnel.”

Central to the documentary is Sabir Banek’s story - whose journey was shaped by a lack of purpose and community support, which led to a descent into youth crime.

“My normal was hanging out and committing crimes,” he said, “I didn’t know any other way.” After the loss of his father, things started to spiral, and Sabir found himself incarcerated.

However, his time behind bars became a turning point, “I realised there is another way of life, there is a light in the tunnel.”

After his release, Sabir turned to faith, which became a foundation for his transformation. He secured employment as an apprentice carpenter, pursued his passion for music and art. Most importantly, he discovered a sense of purpose and belonging within his community.

Now, Sabir is determined to use his story to inspire others, “I want to help people, impact people,” he said.

“Not just people who have been through what I’ve been through, but also those who may be lost and confused, people who may not know what they want to do.”

Beyond Sabir’s story, Reclaimed Voices dives into the systemic challenges faced by young African Australians, from criminalistic portrayal, bias and racism in the media, to wide gaps in community support, education and services for young people.

“For too long, our community has been boxed into the headlines, reduced to stereotypes, and spoken of, but not for,” said Malou.

“This film flips that script by showing the names, faces, and humanity behind the labels.”

“This is about reclaiming our voice - It's rewriting the narrative and reshaping the power of true storytelling.”

AYI, the driving force behind the documentary, is a not-for-profit organisation, based in Melbourne’s western suburbs. It supports disengaged African youth through mentorship, education support, sports programs, advocacy, and community-building events.

AYI co-founder, Robiel Abraham says community is crucial to guiding and supporting disengaged young people.

“We operate through collective impact,” he said.

“We're motivated by this sense of making our community better - the way that we do it is by showing up for one another.”

By empowering young people to reclaim their voices and rewrite their narratives, AYI is fostering hope and resilience for a better future in the face of systemic challenges.

Liana Buchanan, Principal Commissioner for Children and Young People, praised AYI’s proactive approach, “[AYI] are not waiting for government. They're not waiting for the rest of us to get on board and act. They're taking matters into their own hands,” she said.

Liana also shared CCYP’s recent Youth Forum Report into the lived experiences of African and South Sudanese young people.

Over 200 shared their experiences with youth crime, employment, mental health, education and drugs and alcohol.

“[Our project] will make recommendations to government for how government can help tackle some of these issues.”

As Reclaimed Voices grows its resounding impact, Malou made its message clear, “This is about reclaiming our voice - It's rewriting the narrative and reshaping the power of true storytelling.”

Check out AYI on Facebook and their website for updates on further screenings.

Cathy is a passionate storyteller from Good News Melton, using writing to inspire change, amplify voices, and explore themes of mental health and resilience.

On November 19, the African Youth Initiative’s (AYI) powerful documentary Reclaimed Voices hit the screens of the Treasury Theatre.

Transcending its Melton roots, AYI partnered with the Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP), bringing together stakeholders, friends, families and policymakers in a dialogue for systemic change.

Reclaimed Voices confronts the headlines and stereotypes surrounding young African Australians and youth crime, offering an unflinching look at their experiences and challenging public perceptions.

“This film is more than a documentary, it’s a movement,” said Malou Lueth, AYI Treasurer and one of the on-screen stars.

“We confront the issues of youth crime, not by denying it, but by humanising it and peeling back the layers.”

Cathryn Langley
is a journalist at Good News Melton. She ipsum ultricies aptent sollicitudin est congue. You can find her stories here.

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