Sara Shahverdi—a divorced, motorcycle-riding former midwife—is an unlikely leader in her conservative Iranian village. As the first woman elected to the local council, she fearlessly challenges patriarchal traditions, determined to break the cycle of empty promises passed down by the men. Fierce and unapologetic, Shahverdi fights for the village’s girls and women, from teaching teenagers to ride motorcycles and advocating for female land ownership to confronting child marriage. Each bold move sparks admiration—and backlash. Her story is a portrait of courage, defiance, and the unyielding drive to create change against all odds.

Oscar-Nominated Film, Colorado Premiere

Call2Action Panel: As a village man states, “We give girls shoes, but not paths.” This powerful reflection underscores the central tension of the film: access without true opportunity. Sara Shahverdi reminds us that meaningful change begins with intention—“we need to want change; it takes small steps to create lasting impact.” Voices from our Iranian community, curated by the BIFF Call2Action Team, will expand on the film’s central themes: the ongoing struggle of Iranian women for freedom and equality; the critical role of education in shaping girls’ futures; and the urgent fight against early and forced marriage, which too often cuts short opportunity and independence.