Mandi by Daniel Bangura ifs filmschule köln

Mandi

Digital Graphic Novel

Vision Statement:

My vision for Mandi is to enhance awareness and deepen understanding of climate change impacts, specifically focusing on flooding in Sierra Leone, across diverse audiences. This initiative aims to facilitate informed decision-making regarding climate change effects, stimulate academic interest in Sierra Leone's environmental dynamics, assist educators in integrating Mandi as a pivotal case study for climate change education, empower youth to engage in meaningful discourse on climate issues, and forge partnerships with NGOs engaged in climate action both domestically and internationally.

Synopsis:

»MANDI« is a narrative that encapsulates heroism, community spirit, and the harsh realities of climate change. The story centers on Kelvin Kamara, also known as "America Stress," in Sierra Leone. On a morning in August 2017, Kelvin wakes to a radio forecast of heavy rainfall and potential flash floods. His young daughter, Natasha, and wife, Marie, are anxious about their safety, and despite Kelvin's reassurances, he is deeply troubled.

Kelvin dreams of escaping his community's vulnerability to natural disasters by securing a visa to the United States. On this day, he rides with his friend Sorie to MC a show, but his mind is occupied with thoughts of Foula Town's inadequate water management systems.

During the show, Marie calls in a panic about the worsening storm. Kelvin rushes home, witnessing the devastating impact of flash floods—homes are inundated, possessions swept away, and panic spreads. With no protective gear, Kelvin bravely dives into the floodwaters, rescuing as many people as he can. His friend Usmara captures and shares his heroism on Facebook, drawing worldwide attention and support.

Despite the aid and recognition, Kelvin's health deteriorates due to his relentless efforts. He battles internal pain, cold, and pneumonia, and is eventually hospitalized. Kelvin passes away, surrounded by his family, but his legacy endures. His heroism inspires the formation of a rescue team in his honor and a street named after him.

Link to the project website

Formats

Mandi Project ProfileMandi is a three-chapter Digital Graphic Novel that delves into a fictional narrative inspired by real events, crafted to shed light on the profound impact of climate change.

The name »Mandi« is derived from the Limba tribe in Sierra Leone, meaning water. Developed as a fictional exploration, Mandi draws inspiration from real-life experiences documented during floods during the 2017 devastating mudslide in Freetown Sierra Leone.

It is an immersive narrative that chronicles the rise of a hero, Kevin Kamara, who valiantly saved 40 lives during a tragic flood, only to tragically succumb a few weeks later.

Mandi Project Profile1. Digital Graphic Novel
2. Dedicated website with responsive design, allowing users to experience the narrative with sound element
3. Adapted for mobile phones and iPads/tablets

Mandi Project ProfileFlooding is a saturated topic, and I wanted to approach it from a personal angle. I adapted the hero’s journey method and used the real story of a well-known young man, Kelvin, who died after saving 40 people in a devastating flood in Sierra Leone in 2017.

Mandi Project Profile

1. Visual elements in comics play a significant role in storytelling. The brain processes images more quickly than text, so the combination of text and visuals can convey information more efficiently and vividly, evoking strong emotional responses. Readers engage more with the visual aspects, complemented by background music, creating a more immersive experience.

2. I aim to reach a new audience, drawing from my background in video journalism. This format allows accessibility from anywhere with internet access, particularly in my home country. With Mandi just a click away, anyone with a smartphone can access and experience it.

Master's Project Showcase

© Daniel Bangura