Plot

Many tribes of southern Ethiopia possess a tradition-rich culture based on ancient beliefs and rituals dating back hundreds, perhaps thousands, of years. Living in almost total isolation in some of the planet's harshest conditions a region National Geographic calls the "last frontier" these indigenous peoples' lives are diverse and resilient. Drawn from Water takes you on a journey to Ethiopia's Omo River Valley revealing the tragic destiny of the "mingi" children. Children bearing characteristics that are considered mingi, a bad omen or curse thought to bring drought to the land, are typically drowned in the Omo river, presenting challenges for families who may no longer agree with the practice. This award winning film explores the age old tradition of mingi and tells the story of one visionary tribal member and a small group of photo-journalists, who were challenged to act on behalf of the mingi children. Through their courage to intervene, not only were children rescued from an untimely fate, but sweeping cultural shifts were initiated throughout the entire region.—Anonymous

Many tribes of southern Ethiopia possess a tradition-rich culture based on ancient beliefs and rituals dating back hundreds, perhaps thousands, of years. Living in almost total isolation in some of the planet's harshest conditions a region National Geographic calls the "last frontier" these indigenous peoples' lives are diverse and resilient.

Drawn from Water takes you on a journey to Ethiopia's Omo River Valley revealing the tragic destiny of the mingi children. Mingi, a bad omen or curse which is thought to bring drought to the land, presents an epic life struggle for families of children bearing certain characteristics.

This film tells the story of one courageous tribal member, and a small group of photo-journalists, who were challenged to act on behalf of the mingi children. The 30 minute documentary tells their collective story, embracing a shared vision for a future free from mingi practices.