The Rivers That Shape Us

As part of International Development Week, we invite you to a screening of Waterschool, a 2018 documentary directed by Tiffanie Hsu and produced by the Swarovski Foundation. The film follows six young female students living along six of the world’s major rivers – the Amazon, Nile, Mississippi, Danube, Ganges, and Yangtze – and explores the role water plays in shaping identity, community, resilience, and everyday life across diverse parts of the world. Through their stories, Waterschool highlights the interconnectedness of global water systems, the critical importance of water education, and the ways young people are leading conversations on sustainability and environmental stewardship.

The themes explored in Waterschool closely align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, which calls for equitable access to water and the protection of water-related ecosystems. The documentary also touches on broader goals such as Gender Equality (SDG 5), Climate Action (SDG 13), and Quality Education (SDG 4), showcasing how water justice intersects with global efforts to build more sustainable, equitable, and resilient communities. By connecting personal stories to global commitments, the film encourages viewers to reflect on their role in advancing the SDGs at home and worldwide.