Women’s sports deserve more support – Filmmaker Gimsay

Filmmaker Fatimah Gimsay, whose 2025 hit movie ‘Laraba and Balarabe’ broke the internet with its storytelling and relatable themes, talks about her filmmaking journey, her love for football, supporting women’s sports, and more in this interview with PETER AKINBO

How did you get involved in filmmaking?

I’ve always loved filmmaking, and I had been curious about how it came together. I always wondered about the processes, and honestly, that’s what led me to realise I wanted to do it full-time as a job.

What did your family think of it?

I’m so thankful for my mother because she didn’t understand why I suddenly wanted to be a filmmaker before graduating from University, but she always gives me the space to try and see what happens, so thankfully I tried, and it was worth trying.

What’s your favourite part of filmmaking?

It’s every part right now. I actually used to run away from the difficult bits, but now I’m a huge fan of enjoying the process before the final product.

What sport do you enjoy?

I have loved football since I was seven years old. My uncle introduced me to football, and he’s a dedicated Chelsea fan, but I betrayed him by becoming an Arsenal fan. I had a brief interest in basketball in university. As much as it stresses me, I still occasionally enjoy a good football match.

Were you good at it then?

Absolutely not.

Why do you enjoy this sport?

Football feels like storytelling. It’s also why I really loved the WWE at some point. Football is a beautiful game that takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions. It actually unifies more than it divides. I have amazing childhood memories connected to so many football moments.

Who is your favourite sportsperson?

Osaze Odemwingie. Leah Williamson. Megan Rapinoe. Thierry Henry. Rio Ferdinand. David Beckham. I can go on and on.

What’s your favourite sports memory of all time?

This is hard. I remember the first time I knew what the World Cup was, it was in 2002 in Japan, and I think Brazil won. I was so thrilled to realise countries played each other. I have another memory of Nigeria winning AFCON in 2013 when I was in school, too.

What do you think of the Super Falcons and the D’Tigress’ achievements?

I love it for them! I wish more people actually showed up and supported them. There’s nothing like “I don’t watch women’s sports” because you’re missing out like crazy. I’m so happy for our women; they’re doing well and showing out across all sports.

How did you get into making Laraba and Balarabe?

After making lowkey adults, we (Susan Pwajok and I) decided we wanted to make something else. We knew we couldn’t raise the funds for a bigger project, so we decided to tell a smaller story that still felt big in its own right.

Did you expect all this attention, and how did that feel?

Not exactly. We knew people would relate to the story, but we still didn’t expect the number of reactions we got. It was so jarring and exciting at the same time. It still is.

What was the story you were trying to tell? Is it your personal story?

It’s simply a story of a young woman realising that she’s been alone in a relationship, and she goes through the five stages of grief in just 30 minutes. It’s not a personal story, but I still feel connected to the characters.

Is there any sport you would like to do a movie on?

Oh, definitely football, boxing, wrestling and skating.

When you are not writing or shooting movies, how do you relax?

I love spending time with loved ones, and I also love my solitude. I relax by honestly watching things, scrolling through TikTok, going to the beach, eating with friends, exploring new hobbies, and just trying to have a good time.

What is your ultimate goal or dream in filmmaking?

That’s a huge question. The goal is to raise funds to tell important stories. The hardest part of filmmaking is actually getting the funds to tell these stories. Right now, Double C Media is focused on raising funds for a slate of stories focused on young adults and their colourful worlds.

How do you think the Nigerian film industry can still grow and improve?

It’s a never-ending learning process, so I hope we learn to operate with that mindset, and also, collaboration will always save us.

Finally, who are your GOATs in filmmaking and sports?

Ryan Coogler, Martin Scorsese & David Fincher for filmmaking. Serena Williams, Nwankwo Kanu and Lionel Messi for sports.