Exclusive Ottawa screening of new critically acclaimed film, Girl Rising

TORONTO, Sept. 11, 2013 /CNW/ - Ottawa residents are invited to an exclusive screening of the inspiring new film Girl Rising, presented by World Vision in Ottawa on Friday. The event will also feature a panel discussion including the film's producer, Justin Reeves.

Girl Rising moved audience members when it premiered early 2013 at Sundance Film Festival. It beautifully tells the stories of nine extraordinary young girls from nine different countries, all born into harsh and, in some cases, desperate circumstances, while exploring the vital role education can play in changing each narrative.

"The incredible girls in this film are facing challenges like arranged marriages, child slavery, and other injustices we only read about.  But they all have a common ally, education.  By getting an education, they're all able to overcome these challenges to change the course of their lives, break barriers and transform communities." - Justin Reeves, Producer, Girl Rising

Each story is co-written by, and features the real life girls.  The film is narrated by some A-list stars such as: Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Kerry Washington, Selena Gomez, Alicia Keys, Cate Blanchett, Priyanka Chopra, Freida Pinto, Chloe Moretz and Liam Neeson.

The trailer for the film can be viewed here. Residents of Ottawa can get free tickets online at www.girlrising.ca.

Who: Expert panel including film producer Justin Reeves plus hundreds of local residents
What: Exclusive Canadian screening of Girl Rising , presented by World Vision
When: September 13 at 7 p.m. (limited media passes available)
Where: AMC Kanata; 801 Earl Gray Dr., Kanata
Why: To highlight the importance of educating girls and ways Canadians can make this possible
Interviews available: Panel members Justin Reeves, Girl Rising; Teriano Lesancha, education advocate and first Masai women to obtain a university degree; Ed Walzak of World Vision
Online: girlrising.ca, Worldvision.ca

World Vision is a leading Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. Inspired by our Christian values, we are dedicated to working with the world's most vulnerable people. We serve all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.

SOURCE: World Vision Canada

For media interviews or media passes contact:

Sarah Bartley 905-565-6200 ext. 4054; [email protected]