The One Foundation is proud to announce the World premiere of “HOME: The Story of Zak Moradi,” a powerful and poignant documentary about the extraordinary life of Zak Moradi, a Kurdish refugee who found a new home and a new passion in Ireland. The screening will take place this Friday afternoon 12th July, at the Galway Film Festival.
“HOME” is an intimate portrait of Zak Moradi, from growing up in a refugee camp in Iraq, to becoming a pillar of the community in Ireland. The documentary provides a unique perspective on the refugee experience, highlighting Zak’s return to his homeland after more than two decades, which Zak describes as being “about the life of a refugee and what a refugee is.”
“Filming the documentary was an amazing experience, a different experience,” Zak said. “I am very lucky to have the opportunity to tell my story. Visiting the refugee camps was very emotional; it brought back a lot of memories. It reminded me of where I started and how I’ve changed as a person – from having nothing but the clothes on my back to having a good life.” Zak added “this is an important story, not just my story, but the story of refugees. Refugees are all around the world now. People don’t know what a refugee is until it comes to their own doorstep. It’s not something you choose; it’s something forced upon you, and you have to fight to survive. No one wants to be a refugee.”
The film explores the vibrant life and community Zak and his family has built in Ireland, showcasing the beautiful merging of Kurdish and Irish cultures. Gaelic sports, particularly hurling, have been a cornerstone of Zak’s life. The documentary retraces his path from humble beginnings in Leitrim, through personal reflections and anecdotes, revealing the challenges he faced and the resilience he demonstrated in adapting to his new home. It also shows Zak, now based in Dublin, passing on his hurling expertise as a coach to children in the community. He also works with organisations including Migrants Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI ), Sport Against Racism Ireland (SARI ) and The One Foundation to combat racism and discrimination.
The journey to Iraqi Kurdistan is a poignant chapter in the film, allowing Zak to reflect on his roots, witness the changes in his homeland and understand the hopes of his people for the future. Viewers will be transported to cities like Sulaymaniyah and Erbil, experiencing the rich culture and values of the Kurds.
The film also visits the harrowing site of the genocide in Halabja and the vast refugee camps in Arbat and Barika, documenting the severe impact of the conflict and the ongoing refugee crisis.
The documentary’s director Trevor Whelan said, “It was an honour to be trusted to lead this documentary and tell Zak’s story of resilience and hope. His journey from Iraq to Ireland is inspiring and illustrates the important duty we have to offer safety and care to those who are vulnerable and persecuted. Thanks to a close creative team of Editor Ciaran Murray, Composer Eric Whelan and Director of Photography, Rua Meegan, we were able to tell this emotive and impactful story.
The World Premiere of “HOME: The Story of Zak Moradi,” will be screened on Friday 12th July at the Galway Film Festival. Screening starts at 16.15. There will be a post-show discussion with key members of the Crew.
