Sensei
Directed by Jill Roberts
Sensei is an award-winning short film about Natalie Olson, the first Canadian with Down syndrome to achieve her black belt in karate, and her coach and lifelong friend, Sensei Heather Fidyk. Blazing a trail for Canadian para athletes to compete on the international stage, the two women prepare for Natalie's next big challenge – grading to her third-degree black belt. Alongside Natalie, karate student Conrad Graup trains for his first degree black belt, hoping to eventually join his hero on the world stage. Our story is a warm-hearted, quirky and inspiring look at the martial arts world through a female and neurodiverse lens. We get to know Natalie as an athlete, enthusiastic fan-fiction writer, activist and role model for people with disabilities, and learn about her dreams for the future.
Upcoming Screenings
Sunday, May 14, 2023
11 AM EDT
Screening as part of the Homegrown Stories shorts program. This film will screen in-person at Innis Town Hall on this date and will also be available to watch online.