Wessuna – It’s Over

Former Young Offenders Tackle the Stigma of Conviction

A short documentary set and screened in their community raises awareness on youth recidivism and how it’s influenced by the stigmatisation of offenders.

In Senegal, young people who have been released from prison often face stigmatisation and ostracism from their family and the wider community. Without support or opportunities, many young men return to crime and prison.

A group of former young offenders decided to create a short documentary where they and social workers advocate for the importance of having support from the community and the families every step of the way. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated restrictions, the team successfully screened their documentary in local community venues.