Jasmine "Jazzy" Ankamah, a 25-year-old Windsor resident, is taking center stage in a new short documentary film that aims to challenge stereotypes about Canadians living with Down syndrome. The film, titled Unified Voices, was produced by the Canadian Down Syndrome Society as part of National AccessAbility Week.
A Story of Dreams and Determination
Jazzy wants the world to know she has goals for the future. "I'm a kid with dreams," she said. The documentary follows her daily life, including her work at her family's Ghanaian restaurant, Zuleeats, where she and her siblings promote accessibility and inclusive employment through their online platform.
Challenging the Single Story
Laura LaChance, executive director of the Canadian Down Syndrome Society, explained that the organization aimed to highlight underrepresented communities in disability storytelling. "Everybody will have a different experience depending on their culture, where they came from, their skin colour, their community," she said.
The Ankamah family's social media presence caught the attention of the society, leading to the opportunity to share Jazzy's story with a national audience. The film was directed by Moses Latigo Odida, whose own daughter has Down syndrome, bringing a personal perspective to the project.
Behind the Scenes
Jazzy's older sister, Celesta, appreciated working with Odida. "It was amazing being able to talk to somebody who’s a lot older, who has different and varied experiences with people with Down syndrome," she said. "His daughter is much younger than Jasmine, so we were able to talk and exchange ideas."
The film crew spent two days filming in Windsor, an experience Jazzy found both enjoyable and tiring. "At the end of it she was like, 'You guys are still following me?'" recalled Celesta. "At first she was nervous and then she warmed up and then she was over it."
Family Perspectives
The documentary captures Jazzy working at the restaurant, attending dance classes, and playing on her iPad. Her family shares their experiences growing up with her. Celesta noted, "I think that Jasmine has the life she has because my mom never treated her any differently than she treated the rest of us. Treat everyone equally and give them the opportunity to show you their potential."
Jazzy's mother, Zule, hopes the film educates viewers about Down syndrome. "There are a lot of myths out there. But here, through this documentary, I hope they learn more and understand we are more alike than different," Zule said.
Premiere and Viewing
The Ankamahs are eagerly awaiting the final cut of the film. They plan to host a private screening for family, friends, educators, and the local Down syndrome community when it premieres on June 1. The documentary can be viewed starting June 1 at unifiedvoices.ca.
