#FIRSTLOOK: “NAWI: DEAR FUTURE ME” ACQUIRED BY NEW MOUNTAIN FILMS

New Mountain Films is proud to announce its acquisition of North American rights to NAWI: DEAR FUTURE ME, the critically acclaimed Kenyan–German drama that has taken the global festival circuit by storm. The film has garnered 14 international awards, was Kenya’s official submission for Best International Feature at the 2025 Oscars, and recently screened at the UN Commission on the Status of Women in New York.

Inspired by true events, NAWI follows a 13-year-old girl in rural Kenya whose father trades her into marriage in exchange for livestock. On her wedding night, she escapes, walking alone to Nairobi to pursue an education. When she learns that her infant sister is being forced to take her place, Nawi returns to confront her family.

NAWI is co-directed by Toby and Kevin Schmutzler, Apuu Mourine, and Vallentine Chelluget, with a script credited to Kevin and Toby Schmutzler and based on a story by Milcah Cherotich. The lead role is portrayed by Michelle Lemuya Ikeny, whose performance has drawn international acclaim.

The film has earned top honours at festivals across Europe, Africa, Asia, and North America—including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Newcomer, the Special Jury Award at Beijing’s BJIFF (Tiantan Awards), and dual wins at Raindance—alongside multiple Audience Awards.

“NAWI is exactly the kind of story we feel compelled to share—brave, beautifully made, and impossible to ignore,” said Khaled Sabbour, founder and CEO of New Mountain Films. “It’s not only been recognized by the global film community, but has ignited real-world change. We’re honoured to bring it to North American audiences.”

In Kenya, NAWI has already raised over $300,000 through its impact campaign, with the first all-girls boarding school now open and serving 200+ students. A mobile desert cinema tour is launching this summer to bring the film to remote villages. The project has garnered support from global organisations including UNICEF, Girls Not Brides, and Girls First Fund.

The deal was negotiated directly between Sabbour and the filmmakers at FilmCrew Media: Kevin and Toby Schmutzler and producer Lydia Wrensch. New Mountain is currently targeting a February 2026 theatrical release across the U.S. and Canada.

About New Mountain Films:

New Mountain Films is a Toronto-based independent film distributor dedicated to bringing bold, socially resonant stories to audiences across North America. Founded in 2024 by veteran industry executive Khaled Sabbour, the company made its theatrical debut with THE COURAGEOUS and continues to build momentum with a growing slate of titles, including the upcoming releases of LOATHE THY NEIGHBOR, ROADS OF FIRE, and MY BROTHER ALI. With a commitment to nurturing creative talent and amplifying underrepresented voices, New Mountain Films builds strong relationships with filmmakers and the wider film community.