Filmmaker Jasmine Day Turns Personal Trauma into Powerful Storytelling with ‘Dawn’
Jasmine Day, a filmmaker from South Auckland, New Zealand, is premiering her short film, Dawn, at the Māoriland Film Festival this month. The film is a fictionalized retelling of a traumatic police raid experienced by her family, aiming to challenge stereotypes and shed light on the realities faced by South Auckland whānau.
A Childhood Marked by Adversity
Day’s early life was shaped by significant challenges. Born in the Papakura maternity ward – a location affectionately referred to as “under the bridge” by locals – she experienced a turbulent childhood marked by abuse and trauma. Her oldest brother was placed in whāngaie (informal Māori adoption), and Day and her siblings spent time living apart from their mother. Despite these hardships, Day credits her aunty with providing a stable and nurturing environment that emphasized the importance of education.
Day excelled academically, participating in Mathex teams and pursuing her creative passions at Papakura High School, where she thrived in drama, dance, music, art, and design. She later studied performing arts at the Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT).
Navigating Systemic Challenges and Becoming a Caregiver
A period of healing in Byron Bay, Australia, followed an abusive relationship, allowing Day to rebuild her life. However, her return to South Auckland brought new challenges. She became involved in a family hui regarding her brother’s legal troubles and was subsequently entrusted with the care of five of her siblings at the age of 22, after concerns were raised by Child, Youth and Family (now Oranga Tamariki – Ministry for Children) about her mother’s ability to parent.
This responsibility coincided with a police raid at her home, triggered by a previous tenant and complicated by the presence of marijuana, which Day used as a coping mechanism for stress. The experience, as she recounted to interviewers, highlighted the systemic issues faced by caregivers in South Auckland.
From Creative Outlets to Filmmaking
Day found a creative outlet at the 312 hub in Onehunga, hosting events and fundraising for her projects. She connected with Eddy Royal of Curative NZ, who recognized her passion and provided support for her creative endeavors. She also became involved with the Māoriland Film Festival trust, working in an administrative role.
With support from Ngā Pakiaka, the rangatahi filmmaking collective of Māoriland Charitable Trust, Day wrote and directed Dawn, a film inspired by the police raid and intended to challenge perceptions of South Auckland.
‘Dawn’ and a Vision for Change
Dawn, which premiered at the Māoriland Film Festival, aims to debunk myths about South Auckland and celebrate the resilience of its community. Day emphasizes the rich culture and the stories of strength found within the area, highlighting the ability of its residents to thrive despite systemic obstacles.
Now 31, Day balances her full-time job in the travel industry with her creative pursuits and family life. She continues to draw inspiration from her upbringing and is committed to using her voice to advocate for positive change.
The Māoriland Film Festival runs from March 24-28 in Ōtaki. For screening times, including for Dawn, visit mff.maorilandfilm.co.nz.