About Elmi,

An award-winning Somali-British documentary maker. For 10+ years, his films have screened globally, blending intimate cinematography with raw honesty. Founder of Roots TV, I train young storytellers from disadvantaged communities. Based in Australia, I centre dignity, not pity — moving audiences from empathy to understanding.

For over 18 years, Mr Elmi's films have screened at festivals and galleries across Africa, Europe, and Australia. I’m a Somali-British documentary maker whose work blends intimate cinematography with raw honesty. My focus is dignity, not pity. I don’t want audiences to just feel sorry for my subjects. I want to move people from empathy to understanding.

I’m currently based in Perth, where I founded Roots TV, a not-for-profit that uses creative storytelling to engage at-risk youth. In 2023, I was nominated for Australian of the Year for my work in the arts and community impact.

Creative Approach
My documentaries centre on voices that are often talked about but rarely heard. His work closely with communities to build trust before a camera ever rolls. The result is work that feels personal, unfiltered, and grounded in mutual respect. Whether I’m filming in Rwanda, London, or suburban Perth, the principle is the same: let people tell their own stories, with craft and care.

Documentary: Over the past decade, he directed and shot feature and short documentaries that have screened globally. Themes include migration, identity, faith, and intergenerational resilience. his films are known for their quiet, observational style and refusal to sensationalise.

Theatre: he created and produced over 8 original theatre productions in Perth and London. These works fuse documentary testimony, live performance, and multimedia to bring unheard community stories to the stage. The productions have been used as tools for dialogue in schools, community centres, and policy forums.

Recognition

• Nominated, Australian of the Year 2023 — for services to arts and youth empowerment

• Award-winning filmmaker — international festival selections 

• Speaker & educator — guest lectures and workshops on ethical storytelling, representation, and community media

Current Focus
Right now, he is developing a new slate of documentaries and expanding Narrative Nomad’s reach into regional WA. I’m also consulting with NGOs and broadcasters on how to commission stories without exploiting the people in them.

Contact & Collaborations
He is open to commissions, speaking, and partnerships that align with dignified storytelling.

 

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