Focused on the Ballroom scene, Trailblazers was the director’s, Sobia Bushra’s, dissertation for her Masters of Arts in Digital Documentaries Journalism. Knowing she would be spending a lot of time and effort into the project Sobia knew the subject matter would have to be something important to her.
“For me personally it was Asian, Queer Identity and what that looks like in the UK in terms of finding family and creating communities for yourself when you’re typically pushed towards the margins and how you find your voice through that.”
“It’s like a surrogate family.”Outside of New York it became a global phenomenon, and eventually a Welsh ballroom community was made. Sobia described it as having its own culture, rules, and history.
“Black, Asian, and Global majority Queer people are finding a space where they feel represented. Ballroom is a subculture to support these individuals and give them space to express themselves. So from there I found the Welsh ballroom community, I found Muz, Alia, and Aiman, and I knew this was my story because I felt represented by them, and empowered by what they were doing.”In making Trailblazers, Sobia knew she wanted to leave the audience feeling hopeful.
“We’re very used to seeing or hearing about tragedies when it comes to Queer people, and this is not necessarily just Queer people of Colour. “My characters are trailblazers. They’re the people who fill everyone with a sense of hope that this is not the case.”Sobia wanted to platform through Ballroom how Asian and Queer people can be successful, and find success whilst being their authentic self.
“The message of Trailblazers is there’s hope and opportunities for the next generation, for Queer people. Thanks to the trailblazers like people like Muz, Alia, and Aiman, who are creating a stage for Queer people.”Being an LGBTQ+ focused short film, Trailblazers was entered into and shortlisted in the category of ‘Best British Short Film’ at the Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival, which is going into its 19th year and will be on from the 13-19 October.
One of 15 short films to make the cut, all of the short films shortlisted will be streamed on Channel4. The winner will receive an exclusive screening of their film at Pinewood Studios and a welcome reception with drinks and canapes sponsored by Pinewood Group. They will also be invited to be part of the 2026 Iris Prize Best British Jury.
2025 BEST BRITISH SHORTLIST
“I’m so grateful for the people who helped make it happen because it wasn’t just me.”Alongside her direction, the film was produced by her friend and ex-classmate Welsh filmmaker Ronan Williams. Several of her classmates made up the crew of the documentary.
Sobia Bushra will be attending the Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival, so if you want to meet the Director behind this stunning documentary, then make sure to come along!
