In his TEDx Santa Barbara Salon talk, Sam Kadi, a Syrian-born filmmaker, writer, and producer based in Santa Barbara, shows you how cinema has the power to reconstruct Syria’s cultural heritage and national identity. Drawing on his personal journey and professional experience, Kadi takes you through the transformative role of filmmakers in telling stories that heal and unite a divided nation. Under the Assad regime, Syrian cinema faces decades of censorship and propaganda, but Kadi highlights how a new generation of storytellers reclaims the narrative, sharing authentic tales of resilience, hope, and the human cost of war.Kadi inspires you to believe that justice fosters healing and explains how storytelling through cinema promotes unity and preserves the legacy of Syria’s peaceful revolution. He urges you to shift your perspective—away from stereotypical portrayals of violence and terrorism—and to see Syrians as they truly are: rich in culture, deeply connected to their ancient history, and full of hope. He shares his vision for films that honor the lives lost in the fight for dignity and freedom while inspiring future generations to rebuild.Through personal stories, including his early years in Aleppo and his journey as a theater artist turned filmmaker, Kadi gives you an intimate look at what it means to use art to resist oppression. He reveals why cinema is uniquely powerful: it transcends borders, travels globally, and sparks action like no other medium. With works like his acclaimed film Little Gandhi, Kadi reminds you that well-made films are “ticking bombs” of truth capable of challenging even the most oppressive regimes.Kadi’s idea worth sharing is this: Cinema is a powerful medium to reclaim narratives, preserve cultural identity, and inspire healing in post-conflict societies. He compels you to see how storytelling can shape history and why supporting authentic voices from Syria is more crucial than ever.Sam Kadi is an award-winning filmmaker celebrated for using storytelling to illuminate human rights and social justice. Born in Aleppo, he transitioned from engineering to filmmaking, carving a unique path that intertwines his creative vision with activism. His films have sparked global conversations, including screenings at the United Nations and engagements with the U.S. Congress and the Canadian Parliament. Kadi spoke before the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Netherlands, about raising awareness of human rights issues through films. Kadi is a TEDx speaker, a jury member for multiple film festivals, and a member of the Directors Guild of America (DGA), where he serves on the Guild Asian American Committee. Kadi’s work continues to amplify voices from the Syrian diaspora. He blends artistry and advocacy to foster empathy and inspire change. Through his lens, he crafts narratives that connect personal stories to global issues, empowering audiences to see beyond headlines. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx