Abou Sangaré of ‘Souleymane’s Story’ Granted Work Visa in France
Abou Sangaré, the star of the award-winning film "Souleymane’s Story," has received a one-year work visa to stay in France. The 23-year-old Guinean actor’s performance in the critically acclaimed movie, which explores the life of a Guinean migrant in Paris, earned him accolades at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, including the Jury Prize for the film and the Performance Prize in the Un Certain Regard section.
Sangaré’s story mirrors the struggles of his character as he faced legal challenges in his quest to stay in France. Following three denied applications for work visas and an impending deportation order, he now has the opportunity to work legally. However, he has chosen to temporarily pause his acting career to focus on a new job as a mechanic, stating, “There might be offers but I’m a mechanic, that’s my trade.”
His journey to France began at age 15 when he left Guinea to support his ailing mother. Facing numerous hardships during his travels through Algeria and Libya, including imprisonment, he finally made it to France in 2017. Though his attempts to seek recognition as a minor were rejected, he enrolled in high school and honed his skills as a mechanic, which are in high demand in the country.
Director Boris Lojkine acknowledged the significance of Sangaré’s role and expressed his hope for the actor’s residency status, emphasizing the social implications of the film amidst France’s current immigration policies. In light of recent government measures aimed at tightening immigration, the film’s success underscores the complexities of the immigration debate in France today.
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