Sochima Okafor

Sochima Okafor is a PhD student in African History at Yale University. His research explores the intersections of public health, medicine, and visual culture in colonial and postcolonial Nigeria. He examines how films and other media were used to shape ideas about disease, hygiene, and modernity, and how these narratives interacted with local understandings of health and the body. More broadly, Sochima is interested in the social history of medicine in Nigeria, including indigenous healing practices and alternative medical knowledge systems.

 

Beyond research, Sochima is the Founder of LifeLane Films Network and a filmmaker committed to using media and the art of storytelling to analyze and address public health challenges in Africa. His debut film, “A Stain of Red”,  https://youtu.be/hsL0SPx9Ij4?si=WXX0b0mlNFsUDwm- explores menstrual health issues in Nigeria. It highlights poor sanitary conditions, limited education, and inadequate awareness among young girls.

 

Sochima is passionate about amplifying authentic African narratives and contributing to a globally inclusive understanding of African experiences. His aim is to bridge the gap between historical scholarship and public health advocacy through impactful storytelling.

 

Before joining Yale, Sochima earned his bachelor’s and MA in African history at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and the University of Mississippi, respectively.  Sochima received the prestigious 2025 William Winter Scholar award from the Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration for his outstanding academic and community contributions.