Exploring Activism Through Film: In Conversation with Sofie Rørdam

Storytelling and activism can work together to move mountains. As a filmmaker, Sofie Rørdam has made it her mission to transcend traditional narratives and shed light on pressing social issues. As an Explorer-in-Residence with Kensington, her journey has taken her across continents, capturing stories that challenge perspectives, create deep connections, and inspire change. 

Explorers-in-Residence is a signature program by Kensington Cares that supports a group of intrepid storytellers and explorers around the globe who are committed to furthering our connection to each other and to this planet. As writers, photographers, and filmmakers, our Explorers amplify underrepresented voices and tell untold stories to generate awareness and action. 

We had the privilege of sitting down with Sofie to delve into her captivating work and the driving force behind her filmmaking as a form of activism. 

Filmmaking as Activism 

Sofie's journey into filmmaking as a form of activism began during her university years, where she studied film and visual culture with a focus on anthropology. Fueled by a passion for politics and human rights, she embarked on a mission to utilize film as a tool for social change.  

"Through film, you can share universal topics in an accessible way," she remarks, highlighting the power of visual storytelling in building awareness and driving advocacy. 

Sofie began navigating the world at an early age, backpacking with her parents on a tight budget. At 18 years old, her path led her to spend several years travelling on her own in Asia, where she collaborated with grassroots organizations, documenting stories ranging from the prison system in India to the experiences of torture victims. Sofie's approach emphasizes amplifying the voices of those directly affected by these issues, allowing them to tell their own stories on their own terms.

“For many, it’s the first time they’ve formed a narrative about their trauma,” says Sofie, noting that this is when she realized the true power of film. Through film, these individuals find a platform to reconcile their experiences and reintegrate into their communities—a testament to the profound impact of storytelling on healing and empowerment. 

Capturing Stories of Resilience 

One of Sofie's most impactful projects to date is her upcoming film centered around the Greenlandic prison system, aptly titled Walls. What began as an exploration of the system's realities evolved into a deeply personal narrative of friendship and resilience. Sofie collaborated with Greenlandic director Nina Paninnguaq Skydsbjerg for this project, whose journey intertwines with that of one of the inmates. Both share a history of trauma, but their paths diverge—one serving an indefinite sentence for murder, the other grappling with seeking justice against her attacker. 

“My research on the Greenlandic prison system began in 2015, and we started filming in 2017. When you’re working on a long-term project, you’ll experience big changes in the process. You learn a lot,” says Sofie.  

Through Walls, the two directors intricately weave together narratives of incarceration, trauma, and redemption, offering a poignant reflection on the complexities of human experience. The film, set to premiere this fall, promises to be a testament to the transformative power of storytelling.  

A Journey of Discovery as an Explorer-in-Residence 

Sofie's partnership with Kensington as an Explorer-in-Residence provides her with the flexibility to pursue her storytelling endeavors authentically. The unpredictable nature of long-term filmmaking demands adaptability, a luxury afforded by Kensington's support. 

“My father worked and lived abroad as a biologist for long periods during my childhood which has inspired me to do the same,” says Sofie, “And I have tried to do the same with my kid – even hitchhiking through Iran during my pregnancy.” 

The Explorers-in-Residence Program funds and supports intrepid storytellers and explorers across the globe who are committed to furthering our understanding of this planet and its people. These writers, photographers, and filmmakers work to amplify underrepresented voices and untold stories to generate awareness and support for special causes.  

“We wanted to create opportunities to foster deeper understanding and appreciation for the diversity of planet earth and its people. Our Explorers spark our curiosity, allowing us to challenge our assumptions, habits, and ways of thinking,” says Madelaine Emberson, Kensington’s Director of Social Impact.  

Projects like DefenderX, a collaborative effort with fellow explorer Mikael Strandberg, exemplify this freedom to follow stories wherever they lead. The expedition, which follows Mikael, Jeff Willner (founder of Kensington), and fellow explorer/entrepreneur Steve Brooks, has taken them over land and sea in two modified Land Rover Defenders. The next leg of their journey will see them cross Canada to Alaska. Through Sofie’s lens, we are invited on this journey to confront uncomfortable truths, challenge our perspectives, and embrace the resilience of the human spirit.  

“We don’t know what the end of the story will be, or where it will end.”  

To learn more about Sofie Rørdam's work, visit her website at www.kilwa.dk