Rebecca Changkija Sema: Stories Rooted in Courage, Culture, and Community

Some journeys are shaped not by ease, but by endurance. Rebecca Changkija Sema’s story belongs to that rare space where lived struggle, cultural identity, and creative purpose intersect. A national and international award-winning film producer, entrepreneur, and social worker, Rebecca has spent over fifteen years building narratives that do more than entertain—they preserve identity, restore dignity, and create platforms for voices often left unheard.
What initially drew her to this field was a strong desire to tell stories that reflect our lived realities—stories that are often unheard or underrepresented.
Growing up, she witnessed the power of storytelling in shaping identity, preserving culture, and inspiring change.Film became her medium to give voice to regional talent, showcasing social issues, and uplifting especially women and young minds. Over time, this passion evolved into a purpose using cinema and entrepreneurship not just as creative pursuits, but as tools for community upliftment and meaningful impact

Personal Insight: Choosing Purpose Over Comfort

Rebecca’s inspiration came through observing women who led with quiet strength and integrity. Women who created opportunities while staying grounded in values are reflections of her role model.
This decision became a round turning point . By choosing cultural authenticity over convenience, Rebecca carved a space for herself as a filmmaker who believes that regional stories hold universal truth. Her work reflects lived experience stories shaped by memory, belonging, and social reality.
Yet, this clarity came at a cost.Her twenties were marked by isolation and survival in Mumbai, far from home. “There were very few people from Nagaland,” she recalls. “Many didn’t even know where the Northeast was.” Without a support system, she faced discrimination, financial hardship, and nights without food or shelter. These years tested her deeply, but they also forged an unshakeable resolve.

Challenges: Survival Before Success

She remembers her early struggle days that continue to shape her work till today, There was a moment when her survival was in itself a challenge but she believes in overcoming those years that harden her days.Being a woman from the Northeast trying to find her place without any godfather or support system was extremely difficult. Many people didn’t even know where Nagaland or the Northeast was, and there were moments when she faced no reasonable discrimination simply because of her appearance.
There were days when survival itself became a challenge spending nights without a roof over her head, times when she slept without food or water. Those experiences tested in ways she cannot fully describe. That phase of my life continues to guide my work today, reminding me to create opportunities, dignity, and support for those who are struggling to be seen and heard.Balancing her professional life with motherhood added another layer of responsibility. Rebecca speaks openly about the importance of family as her anchor. Supported by her parents, in-laws, and a deeply encouraging life partner, she built a foundation that allowed her to dream without losing balance. “Nothing comes beyond my children—they are my highest priority and my greatest blessing,” she says.

Achievements That Carry Meaning

While Rebecca’s work has earned recognition across India, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Africa, unlike any other child one of her proudest moments was watching her parents witness her achievements.“Seeing tears in my parents’ eyes as I received my awards—that was everything,” she shares. “It wasn’t about recognition; it was about honouring their faith in me.”
Her film Mechanic Dada stands as a landmark achievement, winning over 25 national and international awards and reinforcing the global resonance of regional cinema. These recognition, however, are not endpoints for Rebecca instead they were reminders that stories rooted in truth can travel far when told with honesty.

Values That Guide Her Path

Integrity, resilience, empathy, and purpose form the core of Rebecca’s work.Integrity keeps her grounded in her roots. Resilience reminds her never to surrender to circumstance. Empathy shapes her leadership, ensuring that every project is human at its core. Purpose gives her direction—the belief that creativity must serve something larger than itself.
These values extend beyond filmmaking into her community initiatives. Through Northeast Unsung Heroes, Rebecca celebrates individuals whose contributions often go unnoticed, while the Northeast India International Film Festival provides an international platform for regional storytellers.Both initiatives are driven by a single vision: to preserve culture, amplify voices, and create opportunity where it is most needed.

Impact and Vision: Creating Space for the Next Generation

Spreading some lights on Rebecca new projects she is working on two documentary films focused on untold stories from the Northeast. Alongside these projects, she continues to mentor emerging filmmakers and advocate for women’s participation in cinema.Her future goals are engraved in continuity rather than expansion for its own sake.She believes to build sustainable platforms for regional talent, mentor young women, and deepen her work in community building. More than legacy, she seeks continuity in ensuring that the stories she began will continue long after her.

Words That Stay With You

Rebecca’s philosophy is best showcased in her own words:
“Dream fearlessly, work tirelessly, and let your story inspire others—because every voice matters, and every story can create change.”
To young women, she advices to believe in your dreams even when the path is difficult. Protect your identity. Stay rooted in your values.Seek support, offer support, and never allow the world to define your worth.
Rebecca Changkija Sema’s journey reminds us that meaningful work is often born in silence, shaped by struggle, and sustained by purpose. And when stories are told with courage and compassion, they don’t just reflect society they reshape it.