UNDERSEEN - A Film About Light, Born in the Darkness
On April 5, 2025, with the support of the European Union a special screening of the short documentary UNDERSEEN was held at the Ukrainian House in Tbilisi for Ukrainians living in Georgia. The event was hosted by the Center for Strategic Research and Development of Georgia (CSRDG) in partnership with the Ukrainian House.
UNDERSEEN, filmed in 2024 in Lviv, Ukraine, tells the story of a unique social initiative — the Museum in the Dark, a museum designed for and operated by people with visual impairments.
The documentary captures the stories of brave individuals, focusing on Alina Marnenko, the founder of the museum, who breathed new life into the concept of a dark museum amid the harsh realities of full-scale war in Ukraine. Together with other strong Ukrainian women, she is building a more inclusive and socially engaged future.
The film follows Alina as she navigates the challenges of war, supports others, and continues to empower her community alongside like-minded peers. Her story is a powerful reminder that change begins with those who are able to find light, even in the darkest moments.
UNDERSEEN highlights the vital role of social entrepreneurship - demonstrating how social initiatives can raise awareness, foster inclusion and integration of vulnerable groups, and create new employment opportunities.
A World Perceived Through Touch
Following the screening, guests had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the daily experience of people with visual impairments. In a completely darkened room, they explored different objects through touch, sound, and taste. This interactive experience offered a deeper understanding of the realities faced by individuals who perceive the world without sight.
About the Project
The documentary UNDERSEEN was produced with financial support from the European Union by Impact Europe as part of the project 'Collaborate for Impact'. The project aims to foster the development of a supportive ecosystem for social entrepreneurship across the Eastern Partnership countries.
In Georgia, the project is implemented by the Center for Strategic Research and Development of Georgia (CSRDG). Regional project partners include SILab Ukraine, EduHub, Ecovisio, and Impact Hub Yerevan.