Shadows of Xenophobia is a film created by high school learners from IkamvaYouth Masiphumelele, Cape Town. It explores the real life stories of people living with diabetes and shows what it’s like to deal with this condition every day.
For years, South Africa has grappled with rising tensions and strong opposition toward foreign nationals, fuelled by widespread beliefs that immigrants take jobs, dominate businesses, and contribute to drug-related issues affecting local youth. This growing resentment has led to devastating consequences, with countless shops destroyed and innocent people subjected to brutal violence, including fatal beatings and burnings. The film explores these complex dynamics and the human cost of xenophobia.