From Zanzibar to Mexico City: Film and Sport Stories Come to Life at TU Dublin
On 18 May, Technological University Dublin was delighted to welcome the Phibsboro Film Society and Phibsboro for All to the Grangegorman campus for their latest community film screening. The event marked the largest audience attendance since the monthly series of free screenings began in October 2025.
The featured film, Samira's Dream, follows the story of Samira, a young woman from Zanzibar, over a seven-year period as she strives to pursue her education while building a family life. The documentary explores her determination to balance personal ambition with cultural and family expectations, while working towards greater independence.
Following the screening, audiences took part in an engaging discussion with the film’s director, Nino Tropiano, alongside journalist, filmmaker and writer Gemma Creagh.
The evening also featured a musical performance by Ger Griffin, who performed live music and read an extract from folk singer Johnny Moynihan’s Zanzibar narrative.
The next Phibsboro for All screening will take place on 10 June in the Central Quad at Grangegorman. The featured documentary, Salute, tells the story behind one of the most iconic images in sporting history: the medal podium protest following the men’s 200-metre final at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. The film examines the actions and legacy of American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos, alongside Australian silver medallist Peter Norman, whose peaceful protest became an enduring symbol of the Civil Rights movement.
The screening will coincide with TU Dublin’s all-day Sports Symposium, which is also free to attend.
Hosted by Technological University Dublin in partnership with Sports History Ireland, the symposium will be officially opened by Charlie McConalogue TD. Bringing together historians, academics and leading sporting figures, the event will explore the rich and diverse history of sport across Dublin.
Those interested in attending the Sports Symposium, the film screening, or both events are encouraged to contact Dr Brian Murphy at brian.a.murphy@tudublin.ie.