Neighbours

Abiba Ndeley was one of six migrant women taking part in a radio mentoring course, 'Having your Voice Heard', run by FOMACS. This radio mentoring programme is part-funded by EPIM (European Programme for Integration and Migration) under the 'Migrants and the Media' project.

The 12 radio classes, mentored and taught by broadcaster Roisin Boyd, explored a range of topics, such as the relationship between 'voice' and 'accent' - issues of particular interest to migrants who wish to break into the Irish broadcasting sector.

One day Abiba was telling Roisin about her neighbours in Pearse Street Flats in Dublin; Roisin said 'why don-t you interview them'? Suggesting that it would be interesting to hear how Abiba was now part of an inner city community in Dublin and to hear the voices of the women who live nearby.

Abiba's documentary 'Neighbours' is a brief snapshot of Abiba's life growing-up in Cameroon; leaving for Ireland and starting a new life in Dublin. It explores the similarities and differences of her hometown, Limbe, and her new found home in Dublin - in the city centre flats, where she lives with her husband and 4 kids.

Abiba says that 'when she first came to live in Ireland, she was given to understand that the society had changed over the years, and people were more likely to keep to themselves.

In the flats, however, she met with a completely different scenario. The kids especially were very friendly and took to her children instantly. She also found that her neighbours were very helpful and always willing to share valuable information and help out with various DIY chores.

The documentary celebrates the prevalent community spirit in the flats; the interviews with two of her neighbours, who are now more or less like family to her, highlights this'.

For more information see Having your Voice Heard