Seize the Summit

The New Canaan Playhouse will host a special screening of the documentary Seize the Summit on December 4, 2025, at 7:15 p.m., followed by a discussion and Q&A with award-winning journalist and INARA founder Arwa Damon and Blossom Hill Founder & Executive Director Shiva Sarram.

Seize the Summit chronicles the extraordinary journey of four young war survivors—from Syria, Afghanistan, and Ukraine—as they unite to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and take a powerful stand against war. The documentary captures their thrilling ascent up Africa’s highest peak while revealing profound lessons about resilience, hope, and the universal impact of armed conflict on young lives.

The film follows Safa, who bears the physical and emotional scars of Syria’s brutal conflict; Adnan, who has been wheelchair-bound since being shot at age 14; Shaqayeq, who was born in war-torn Afghanistan; and Tania, who narrowly escaped Ukraine. Their stories converge on the slopes of Kilimanjaro in a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome even the most devastating circumstances.

Arwa Damon, who left her 17-year career at CNN to create this passion project, will be on hand to share insights into the making of the documentary and the lives it represents. All proceeds from the film benefit INARA, a charity dedicated to supporting children impacted by war and disaster.

This is a rare opportunity for the community to witness an unforgettable story of courage and healing while engaging in meaningful conversation about the young lives forever changed by conflict around the world.

Tickets are $18 for adult, $12 child or senior, and available at https://playhouse.cinemalab.com/movie/seize-the-summit/.