White Nanny, Black Child

Between 1955 and 1995, over 70,000 West African children were fostered by white Britons, in a practice known as ‘farming’. Many of these individuals then had to live, often in silence, with the long-lasting impact of this controversial official policy. Nine of those raised this way were invited to a workshop retreat, under professional guidance, to discuss their experiences. Each take turns delving into their past, revealing the confusion and trauma of dealing with such change at a young age. For many of these individuals, this marks the first time they have had the opportunity to connect with people who have shared a similar childhood. White Nanny Black Child presents a personal, moving and sometimes unsettling meditation on identity, belonging and the nature of family.

"All perspectives were considered during this feature film; from the biological parents of the children, to those who had raised them.

The importance of how early child development (between ages 0-5) can steer the course of one's life was greatly highlighted. This group of adults found comfort in realising that they were not alone. There were others who had experienced similar upbringings.  

We also came to the understanding alongside them that in their adult life, some of their mind sets and relationship mishaps had been based on the feelings of rejection, isolation and neglect that they had been privy to from their biological parents and adopted families. The hardest pill to swallow was that in some of these cases, these feelings were not intentionally imposed,  but rather a byproduct of their surroundings.

I urge you to watch White Nanny Black Child and bear witness to a “journey of compassion” as described by director Andy Mundy-Castle. You will experience an influx of emotions that challenge your perception of life, and how we judge others without actually knowing their story." – The New Black Film Collective

Mundy-Castle has a degree in Media and Film from the University of East London. He also completed a Masters in Documentary at the prestigious Goldsmiths College, University of London. He was chosen as a mentor for Newcomers day at the Sheffield International Doc Fest in 2011. Producing his first feature film, now the multi award 'David is Dying' in 2010.