The documentary “Mana over Meth” explores drug addiction within Pacific communities, examining its root causes and the dependency that arises from it. Created by New Zealand-based filmmakers Jessica Apanui and Holly Bekham, the film shares their personal stories of addiction and recovery, while also proposing solutions.
The 10-minute film was presented at the 4th UN Human Rights Film Festival in Suva, Fiji, held at the Japan ICT Centre on the University of the South Pacific’s Laucala Campus. Ms. Apanui expressed hope that the documentary serves to uplift its viewers, inspire change, and provide a sense of hope for recovery.
She noted the film’s portrayal of environments familiar to many in the community, such as those involving sex workers in hotels, and highlighted how these scenes reflect the broader issues of drug-related crime that affect communities. Ms. Apanui mentioned the pervasive problem of methamphetamine production in New Zealand, which has led to significant changes in insurance policies and safety regulations regarding housing.
While the documentary has garnered both positive and negative reactions, Ms. Apanui stated that differing opinions are acceptable. She emphasized her commitment to continue their work regardless of criticism, focusing on the urgent need to reconnect individuals with their heritage and land as essential components of recovery.
Reflecting on her journey through recovery, Ms. Apanui described the challenges she faced in rekindling her role as a mother after overcoming addiction. She revealed that her children were only familiar with her life as a user, and her transformation into a caring and involved parent was a difficult adjustment for them.
Addressing her trauma and self-identity has been crucial in her recovery. Through the process, she rediscovered her roots on the east coast of New Zealand after a long absence. This reconnection, she described, brought her a profound sense of peace and fulfillment.
Family support played a significant role in Ms. Apanui’s recovery. They encouraged her to seek treatment and were patient as she rebuilt trust with them over time. She acknowledged that it took her family a significant period to believe in her commitment to sobriety, having experienced broken promises in the past.
Ms. Apanui described experiencing a relapse early in her recovery journey, highlighting the challenges of overcoming criminal influences linked to her past substance use. However, she recognized recovery as her true path and has maintained her sobriety for over five years since that moment.
She also noted the deeper issues that contributed to her substance abuse, such as being born into a family with a history of addiction. Many individuals lack the privilege of choosing their life circumstances and face severe hardships that may drive them toward substance use for survival.
Holly Bekham added that addiction does not discriminate and affects all communities and families. She emphasized the need to address underlying issues and traumas that contribute to substance abuse, stating that recovery requires more than just abstaining from drugs; it necessitates deep personal work.