Champions of the Golden Valley

Documentary (USA, 2024), directed by Ben Sturgulewski

The remarkable story of skier Alishah Farhang, who returns to the majestic mountains of Bamyan after narrowly failing to become Afghanistan’s first Winter Olympian. Farhang’s determination on the world stage and his efforts to organise a unique ski race to bring a divided region together sparked a vibrant local skiing culture that brought inspiration and joy to his community. The 81-minute documentary by director Ben Sturgulewski follows skier Alishah Farhang on his return to Bamyan. With minimal equipment, partly homemade wooden skis and a great deal of passion, he establishes a local skiing scene that brings together people from different villages and rival ethnic groups. He provides the community with an outlet for joy and resilience, until the takeover in Afghanistan in 2021 forces many of the athletes to flee as refugees to all corners of the world.

Ages 10+, 81 minutes, English with German subtitles