At March 31 Media, we believe in the power of storytelling to drive desired narratives.
With the recent global pandemic forcing the hybrid work models and job cuts, more women find themselves spending more time at home with the child(ren). When we set out to make Omowunmi, we wanted to highlight some of the struggles of stay-at-home mums.
Omowunmi follows the story of a stay-at-home mum (SAHM) who had quit her job and relocated to a different city to be with her Husband. Several years and a Baby after, she attempts to pick up her career from where she left off but the hurdles in her way soon spiral out of control and forces her to question her choices.
5 Quick Facts About Omowunmi
- This short film was produced in 2020; and premiered on our YouTube Channel.
- It featured 3 creative females in key positions: writer (Aishat Abiri); producer/director(Hadizat Ibrahim); lead actor (Zara Udofia Ejoh).
- The child actor, Ethan Osakwe, made his first movie appearance on this project, and displayed great potential while at it. While shooting the sleeping scenes, he slept without a fuss, all 3 times during shoot!
- The lead actress, Zara Udofia Ejoh won an award at the 2021 Eko International FilmFestival for her portrayal of the titular character, Omowunmi.
- Omowunmi was made as an advocacy effort to highlight issues around stay-at-home mums (SAHMs).
What is the reason for advocacy for SAHMs?
Raising a child is a very demanding responsibility and, in most societies, mothers shoulder the bulk of this task. Women who make the selfless decision to be fully dedicated to childcare should be respected and supported in line with SDG 5 target that seeks to “recognize and value unpaid care and domestic work”. Unfortunately, this is not often the case.
For Omowunmi, the 2 main advocacy messages were:
- Stay-at-home mums, like their career-minded counterparts, should be accorded the dignity of labour. Being a stay-at-home mum is not synonymous with being lazy or being on vacation.
- Career gaps should be normalized. HR policies need to make it easier for women to feel comfortable to take time off work – months, maybe even years – to raise children without being victimized.
Have you seen our short film, Omowunmi?
It is available on the March 31 Media website and YouTube channels.
Tell us what stood out for you the most? What are your perceptions about stay-at-home mums? Please leave us a comment!