Student challenges the stigma around Moss Side with powerful new film
A powerful new documentary by Manchester Met filmmaking student Baka Bah has shone a light on the strength, creativity and resilience of Moss Side - challenging the stigma that has followed the neighbourhood for decades.
The Success of Moss Side, a 40-minute community-led film supported by Manchester Met’s 200-year anniversary Rise Programme, premiered on Saturday 6 September at Factory International, Manchester.
Baka, who grew up in Moss Side, set out to show a different side to the place too often associated in the public imagination with crime or poverty. “I understand where the stigma comes from, but a lot of it stems from the reputation of Moss Side about 30 years ago. We have such a caring community here and it’s kind of crazy we still get the same story told about us.”
Although the realities of life in Moss Side were not ignored, the film emphasised community spirit, creativity and activism - qualities that have long defined the area for those who live there. Baka has since co-founded SNE Studios CIC with director Elmi Ali to continue producing films rooted in community.
Jill Griffiths, Head of SODA at Manchester Met, said: “The Success of Moss Side is a wonderful expression of creativity and community spirit. This is a credit to Baka’s hard work and we are excited to follow his filmmaking journey in the future.”
Why it matters for place managers
At the Institute of Place Management, we often highlight how stories shape places. Moss Side demonstrates the danger of reputations that linger long after reality has changed - and how cultural projects can be powerful in rewriting those narratives.
Key lessons for place managers include:
- Narratives shape reality - reputations can persist for decades and must be actively challenged and updated.
- Lived experience matters - amplify authentic voices rather than letting external stereotypes dominate.
- Culture is a tool for change - film, festivals and storytelling can boost local pride and reframe perceptions.
- Acknowledge the hard truths - credibility comes from showing both resilience and challenge.
- Support young, local leaders - emerging voices are often best placed to reshape narratives from within.
In short: reputation is a form of “place infrastructure” that needs care, investment and renewal- just like public space or transport.
This news story was first published on the Manchester Metropolitan University website. For more information on this story, please contact Dan Cottam via ipm@mmu.ac.uk
About the author
Formed in 2006, the Institute of Place Management is the international professional body that supports people committed to developing, managing and making places better.