Shout Gladi Gladi

Shout Gladi Gladi is a compelling 2015 documentary film that captures an underexplored aspect of women’s health and societal issues in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Known for its uncompromising and empathetic look at the realities faced by many women, the film explores the issue of obstetric fistulas. It spotlights the tireless work and profound spirit of Ann Gloag, a former British nurse turned global philanthropist, who has devoted her time and resources to this often overlooked but critical issue. The film is directed by Adam Friedman and Iain Kennedy and features insights from Chris Baker-Brian, Florence Banda, and Ibrahim Bangura, along with other health workers and advocates.

The core of Shout Gladi Gladi lies in its exploration of obstetric fistulas – a debilitating childbirth injury that leaves women incontinent and often ostracized from their communities. Due to poor medical care, especially in remote areas, these fistulas are unfortunately prevalent in some parts of sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. This under-discussed health issue exacts a harsh toll on the women who suffer from it, endangering their physical health, emotional well-being, and social standing.

The film navigates this sometimes-difficult subject matter with tact, sincerity, and an underlining sense of urgency. At the same time, it steadfastly refuses to portray the affected women as mere victims. Instead, it focuses on their resilience, strength, and the hope they harbor for a better future. It achieves this by offering viewers an immersive look at the woman-centered efforts led by Gloag's Freedom From Fistula Foundation to address and eradicate obstetric fistulas.

Ann Gloag emerged from her humble beginnings as a nurse to become one of the U.K.'s wealthiest women. However, it isn't her monetary achievements that constitute the heart of this narrative. It is her compassionate spirit and determination to use her resources to uplift women in need that sets the underlying tone. The film keenly follows Gloag’s groundbreaking initiative, the Freedom From Fistula Foundation, spotlighting the tireless work that the foundation carries out on the ground.

The filmmakers painstakingly detail the transformative processes of Gloag's medical facilities in Sierra Leone, Malawi, and Kenya. Here, medical experts and caregivers, led by individuals like Chris Baker-Brian, Florence Banda, and Ibrahim Bangura provide free surgeries and comprehensive care to the affected women. Gloag’s mission expands beyond mere treatment, focusing on capacity building within local communities. The film illustrates how the foundation trains local health workers and supports local medical systems to provide better care for women, all in an effort to prevent fistulas.

Shout Gladi Gladi is more than just a statistical overview or clinical exploration of a medical condition. It is a deeply human story that carries viewers into the heart of the communities affected by obstetric fistulas. It captures the emotion, the perseverance, and the victories of real women and the dedicated people who are devoted to helping them.

The film's title, Gladi Gladi, is a local term used in Sierra Leone and connotes a celebration or cause for gratitude. It is apt then, as the film culminates in moments of triumph, where women healed and liberated from their condition reenter their societies with newfound confidence and strength.

However, it doesn’t shy away from emphasizing the real, urgent challenge that lies ahead. The scale of the problem urges viewers to understand more deeply and respond more compassionately to the plight of these women, highlighting the need for collective effort to bring about lasting change in women's health care globally.

In its entirety, Shout Gladi Gladi serves as a remarkable portrait of the power of human resilience, empathy, and the incredible change that focused philanthropy and medical advances can bring about. Through engaging storytelling and raw imagery, the film succeeds in raising awareness about a critical issue while inviting viewers to join in the fight to alleviate the sufferings of women around the world.