Timed to coincide with International Women’s Day, the event also served as part of a broader initiative led by the first lady of the DRC aimed at raising awareness about and addressing gender-based violence.
Attendance included multiple ministers and high-ranking officials, underscoring the project’s importance and its underlying message.
In Fight Like a Girl, Qamata stars opposite veteran actor Hakeem Kae-Kazim. The film revolves around a young woman from Congo who escapes forced labor at an illegal mining site and seeks to rebuild her life by taking up boxing.
Her journey brings her to an all-women’s boxing club in Goma, where she discovers strength and healing under the mentorship of a coach portrayed by Kae-Kazim.
Qamata reflected on filming in Congo, characterizing the experience as profoundly impactful.
“Filming Fight Like a Girl in Congo was one of the most powerful experiences of my career,” she stated.
“This story is about resilience, courage, and the strength of women who refuse to be defined by their circumstances. I hope audiences see the beauty, strength, and spirit of the Congolese people through this film.”
Kae-Kazim expressed similar thoughts, noting that the film’s message extends beyond mere entertainment.
“This film is about hope and transformation. The journey these women go through shows how sport can rebuild confidence and restore dignity. Being able to tell this story in Congo, surrounded by the communities that inspired it, made it even more meaningful.”
Matthew Leutwyler wrote and directed the film, which is based on a real women’s boxing club that has been documented by filmmakers for over five years.
Members of this club also make appearances in the movie, enhancing its authenticity.
The cast includes Malaika Uwamahoro, Kennedy Mazimpaka, and Arthur Nkusi, with Congolese boxing champion Clarck Ntambwe making her acting debut.
Production was managed by Anton Laines and Leutwyler under KG28Media, with contributions from producer Yvette Davis Gayle and executive producer Colin Gayle through Africa Creative Agency.
Serge Ibaka, a Congolese basketball player and NBA champion with the Toronto Raptors, also participated as an executive producer through Ouenzé Entertainment.
