Oscar-winning Pakistani filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy has joined the team of Don’t Be Late, Maaira as an executive producer, lending her support to a powerful new short film by Pakistani-American director Afia Nathaniel.

According to Varietythe short film tells the story of 10-year-old Maaira (played by Anaya Umar), who misses her school van and must make her way home through the unpredictable and often dangerous streets of Lahore. As Maaira navigates her journey, she encounters a range of characters who represent the everyday threats faced by young girls in public spaces.

The film also stars Nida Ahsan as Maaira’s mother, Samaira Sagheer as her teacher, and actors Mushtaq Ahmed, Munir Hussain, Shahid Riaz, Rizwan Riazand Sohail Tariq as various men Maaira meets along the way — each symbolizing a threat to her safety.

Based on a true story, Don’t Be Late, Maaira has made waves on the international film festival circuit, winning awards at prestigious events such as the Bergen International Film Festival (New Jersey), Montreal International Film Festival, Big Apple Film Festival (New York), UK Asian Film Festivaland Woodstock Film Festival. The film’s critical acclaim has now made it a contender for the Academy Awards.

Speaking to VarietySharmeen Obaid-Chinoy said, “Maaira’s story is raw, real, and urgently needed. It gives voice to the silent fears young girls face every day, and highlights their strength in confronting them.”

She expressed pride in supporting the film, aiming to amplify its message on a global scale.

Afia Nathaniel previously directed DukhtarPakistan’s official submission for the 2015 Oscars, and made history as the first Pakistani woman to direct NBC Universal’s Chicago Med.

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