Young Adult Film Screening & Discussion: “The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind”

This film screening will highlight issues in both the humanities & STEM. After the film screening, a critical discussion of the film’s themes will be held. Along with the film and discussion, snacks and refreshments will be served!

Writing for UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Magazine, Maryam Abdullah describes the plot and themes:

“Real-life William Kamkwamba was only 13 years old when a combination of flooding and drought led to a very long hungry season in Malawi. In the film based on his story, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, William’s family cannot afford to continue paying for his school. But, William, an inquisitive tinkerer, sneaks back into school after the headmaster forbids him to return until his fees are paid. William is intrigued by his science teacher’s bicycle light that shines upon pedaling and he wins permission from the librarian for him to continue using the school’s library. As William teaches himself about electricity, his country sinks into famine—and his family endures profound loss.

While highlighting the grim realities of water scarcity that are pervasive throughout much of the world, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind also illuminates the cultural beauty and richness of Malawi, where members of the indigenous religions, Christians, and Muslims live together and honor each other. It provides a strong message that, in large part, strong ties with one another nurture hope and make flourishing possible.”