Rikaz Niyas' short film

Rikaz Niyas' short film Through Bossman's Eyes explores race, culture and identity through the lens of the local convenience store.

Filmmaker's background

Rikaz grew up in Harrow, Northwest London, with his dad supplying corner shops across the UK.

Film's inspiration

Rikaz recalls spending time at his dad's corner shops, seeing diverse people and struggling with cultural identity.

Home Office statistics

Home Office reports show hate crime in UK increased by seven percent in past year, with racial discrimination rising fastest.

Film's message

The film shows bossman facing discrimination after thugs spray-paint 'you don't belong here' on shop shutters.

“you don't belong here”

Rikaz's perspective

Rikaz says growing up as Sri Lankan in UK made him feel disconnected from his identity.

Film's purpose

Rikaz aims to inspire south asian creatives and show community can transcend race and ethnicity.