Documentary Captures Raw Reality of Humanitarian Eye Care Mission in Senegal
MATAM, SENEGAL – A new documentary, “Dans l’oeil du Sénégal” (“In the Eye of Senegal”), offers a stark and moving look at a humanitarian mission bringing vital vision care to the remote Matam region of northern Senegal. The film, created by optician Maxime Balouzed and cameraman/editor Valentin Versini, chronicles the work of the “See Life” mission, spearheaded by Thierry Calderon of the Krys group, and is currently in competition at the Carnet de voyage festival (November 2025). It is available on youtube.
The “see Life” mission focuses on restoring sight and establishing lasting vision care through training local personnel.Filming began under challenging conditions - including lost equipment and extreme 45-degree Celsius heat - but quickly shifted focus to the profound impact of the mission on the local population.
“It’s the biggest mission I’ve ever experienced,” said Versini, who was visiting Africa for the first time. “I wanted to put my whole soul into it.”
The documentary follows volunteer opticians, including 2024 Optician of the Year Thierry Calderon and colleague Emmanuela, as they conduct eye exams from dawn till dusk. Access to vision care is scarce in the region, and even a simple pair of glasses can dramatically improve a resident’s quality of life.
Beyond the medical procedures, the filmmakers were deeply affected by the resilience and positive spirit of the Senegalese people. “We come back and tell ourselves that we are not so unhappy,” Balouzed reflected. “There, some people have almost nothing and never complain. We have a lot to learn from them.”
“Dans l’oeil du Sénégal” aims to be more than just a film; it’s a call for greater understanding, engagement, and a re-evaluation of personal priorities. The project underscores the transformative power of travel and human connection.
