MEIN NAME AKIM

Akim, a trans man and political refugee, struggles with bureaucratic and social barriers in a refugee reception centre. His desire to learn German is denied as languages courses are only available to recognised refugees. He keeps his trans identity secret from his roommates and the other residents of the shelter for fear of being discriminated against. Shunted off to the laundry room, he lives in a world of silence – until the young Kamil and an intern manage to slowly free Akim from his isolation.

The film’s story is based on the real-life experiences of Kygyrz-born writer-director Aleksandr Kim who graduated from ifs International Film School Cologne with MY NAME AKIM this year.