Rakel Sanímuinaqwho acts as a knowledge bearer and angakkoq in the documentary film “SILA”, received the Gaia award on behalf of the film at the Ray of Light Awards 2026.
The Gaia Award is an international film award that honors works with a focus on nature, consciousness and man’s relationship to the living world.
Rakel Sanímuinaqwho acts as a knowledge bearer and angakkoq in the documentary film “SILA”, received the Gaia award on behalf of the film at the Ray of Light Awards 2026.
The Gaia Award is an international film award that honors works with a focus on nature, consciousness and man’s relationship to the living world.
– What I felt most strongly was gratitude that the stories and the knowledge I come from were seen and recognized, Rakel Sanímuinaq tells AG about receiving the award.
Directed by Zaya Benazzo and Maurizio Benazzo, the film explores the meaning of sila, a concept that includes weather, consciousness, spirit and the invisible threads that connect all life.
For Rakel Sanímuinaq, the recognition was not primarily a personal success, but a tribute to the knowledge and the stories she comes from.
– I stood there as one person, but also as a descendant of people who have carried this knowledge through generations. It’s not about me alone, but about those who came before us and those who will come after us, she says.
According to Rakel Sanímuinaq, the most moving moment was seeing people from all over the world recognize an understanding of man and life that originated from her ancestors.
– As a child I was told that this knowledge had no place in the modern world. Standing on an international stage and experiencing it being met with respect was very moving, she says.
Produced by Science and Nonduality, the film follows healers and wisdom bearers from various indigenous traditions and examines the relationship between humans, nature and spirituality.
For Rakel Sanímuinaq, the film’s message is universal.
– “SILA” is not just the story of Greenland. It is part of a larger story about indigenous people, the consequences of colonization and people finding their way back to their culture and indigenous knowledge, says Rakel Sanímuinaq.
She hopes that the film will create a greater understanding of Inuit and indigenous knowledge worldwide.
– I hope that people can meet this knowledge with curiosity and respect and let indigenous people speak with their own voice. If my work can open a door to greater understanding of Inuit knowledge and indigenous people’s contribution to the world, then that is the greatest thing I could hope for, says Rakel Sanímuinaq.
“SILA” premieres in July.
