Future Comes at the Right Time

Directed by Elena Bongiorno, Sofia Merelli, Martina Tamburini and Gabriele Umidon

Today, sexual freedom and gender self-determination are punishable by arrest or death in several countries. This short film tells the story of Nelson and his escape to Italy after a violent assault. He was born 25 years ago in Benin City, one of the most unstable areas of Nigeria. In 2018, the territorial commission that examined his case found his testimony insufficiently credible and rejected his application for international protection. In 2021, Nelson appealed to the Venice Tribunal. While awaiting his verdict, which may take months, Nelson spends his days working, hanging out with friends and making music, hoping to one day become a great singer.