At a time when questions of migration, displacement, and transnational identity are shaping global realities, this event opens a space for reflection and dialogue through a panel discussion of the 2023 Italian film Io Capitano, directed by Matteo Garrone. The program will also include a contextualising musical performance of Senegalese instruments and Afro-Cuban diasporic music and dance.

Io Capitano, which achieved significant international acclaim, offers a powerful cinematic representation of Senegalese migration to Europe. Through an analysis of selected scenes from the film, a panel of experts will discuss the geo-economic and political dynamics driving the contemporary African diaspora, as well as the impacts of migration on both people and places.  

Panelists (University of Melbourne):

Elisabetta Ferrari (School of Languages and Linguistics) 
Lamine Sonko (School of Languages and Linguistics) 
Eyram Ivy Sedzro (School of Social and Political Sciences) 
Santo Cilauro (Filmmaker and screenwriter)

Date: Wednesday 20 May 2026

Time: 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Location: University of Melbourne, Forum Theatre (Arts West Building)

Cost: Free.