By: Mariah Thomas
Photo By Habiba Nosheen
When needed the most, the birth of a new gymnastics team for the residents of Machar Colony in Pakistan brought new, unexpected waves of joy. Many of these girls have their future predetermined before they are born due to the lack of worldly access. However, Coach Furquan Raja brings hope to these girls who find a new sense of purpose as they train for the National Women’s Gymnastics Competition. The documentary The Gymnasts of Fisherman Colony is a reminder that our passions fuel our purpose.
The film The Gymnasts of Fisherman Colony closely follows a young girl named Sonia as she dreams to take her love of gymnastics to the next level. However, in order to do that she needs a varying level of permission – first from her father, who allows it once seeing a video of her actually performing. Thankfully, he has an understanding of her gift. Next, she has to take on the legal system to obtain a passport. Through these obstacles, Sonia has the support of the girls on her team, family, her coach and an incredible human rights lawyer named Tahera Hasan. This documentary beautifully shows that girls and women can push boundaries and make changes while still respecting the culture they have grown up in. Fighting for your passion can be seen in a new light.
I loved that Sonia had so much community around her to support this transition into a new gymnastics world. You see firsthand that her pushing to be the “first” in some ways leads to the way to possibilities for the younger generation. Even though she is so young, her passion pushes her through any fears she has.
The Gymnasts of Fisherman Colony was directed by Habiba Noshee. Her viewpoint of coming from the gaze of a woman lends even more to how powerful it is as a documentary. Additionally, it is incredible to see that it is produced and backed by a handful of notable and strong women like Malala Yousafzai and Mariska Hargitay. That speaks volumes to the importance of this project. Noshee did a beautiful job at showcasing the reality of Sonia’s world but also taking time to show the beauty in it. There is a wonderful balance of that tied with Sonia’s journey with gymnastics.
This is a documentary that is sure to leave an impact on anyone who watches. The Gymnasts of Fisherman Colony is part of the 2026 Tribeca line up for feature documentaries and encourages viewers to have a new level of determination and a next level of passion to pursue what they love.