Special Programming to Highlight Women’s Stories on March 8
Starting at 2:30 PM, the channel will air a series of documentaries celebrating the contributions, culture and resilience of women.
The collection “From Mother to Earth in French Overseas Territories” kicks off the programming with portraits of women who are passing on ecological knowledge and traditional practices across various overseas territories. Through their workshops and daily commitments, these women are shaping ideas for the future.
At 2:40 PM, the documentary “Manae Feleu, Captain Futuna” follows the inspiring journey of Manaé Leleu, a medical student and captain of the women’s rugby team. From Futuna to the international stage, her story showcases the determination of a new generation of young women proudly representing their communities.
At 3:45 PM, the film “Flora Aurima Devatine, Stars of the Dawn” traces the life of the writer and prominent figure in Polynesian culture. The documentary highlights her dedication to preserving knowledge and celebrating Polynesian cultural identity.
In the evening, at 7:30 PM, “The Braid” tells the interconnected stories of three women living in India, Italy, and Canada. Their diverse paths converge around a shared struggle for dignity and empowerment. This film is part of a growing trend of international stories gaining prominence on streaming platforms.
The evening continues with the documentary collection “Elles” (meaning “Them”), featuring several inspiring portraits of Polynesian women. Episodes including “Battements d’elles” (Heartbeats of Them), “Essenti’elles” (Essentials of Them), and “Mémori’elles” (Memories of Them) recount lives marked by resilience, commitment, and the passing down of traditions in areas like sports, healthcare, traditional medicine, and cultural heritage.
Finally, at 10:50 PM, the documentary “Faces of War” follows French surgeon Chloé Bertolus, a specialist in facial reconstruction, as she provides care to those wounded in the war in Ukraine.
Two Documentaries in Wednesday Night’s PATITIFA Slot
Continuing this focus on women’s stories, the PATITIFA programming block will feature two documentaries dedicated to women from French overseas territories.
On Wednesday, March 4, “Kanak Women, The Pioneers” recounts the history of New Caledonia through the perspectives and experiences of Kanak women. Often overlooked by the colonial system and patriarchal structures, they played a vital role in the country’s political, cultural, and social movements. The film gives voice to a new generation of women actively shaping Caledonian society today.
On March 25, the documentary “Living with Endometriosis”, directed by Léa Ménard, addresses a frequently misunderstood condition through the stories of four women living in Martinique, Guadeloupe, French Guiana, and Réunion. The film offers a deeply human approach, shedding light on the daily realities, pain, and strength of those who live with this illness.
Giving Voice to Women
Through this special programming, Polynésie La 1ère aims to celebrate the journeys of women who are committed, transmit knowledge, and transform their societies. Whether they are artists, athletes, healthcare professionals, scientists, or keepers of traditional knowledge, these women embody the diversity and richness of French overseas territories.
It’s a day to listen to their stories, understand their struggles, and celebrate their contributions.
