Kemba, an MPI Original and BET Original Film, will screen on October 24 at 6 p.m. at the University of Pennsylvania. Based on the true story of Kemba Smith Pradia, the film takes viewers on an emotional journey through the life of a young college student wrongfully imprisoned under harsh sentencing laws enacted during the government’s “war on drugs.” The film sheds light on the devastating effects of mandatory minimum sentencing and emphasizes the urgent need for reform.

Starring Nesta Cooper (Apple TV’s See), Kemba tells the story of how Kemba’s life was derailed when she fell in love with a man involved in drug trafficking. Despite never participating in his criminal activities, Kemba was sentenced to 24.5 years in prison—an outrageous sentence that exposed the deep flaws of mandatory minimum laws. Her story brings to light the disproportionate impact these laws have on nonviolent offenders, especially in marginalized communities.

Following the screening, executive producer and film subject Kemba Smith Pradia will lead an in-depth discussion on the impact of mandatory minimum sentencing, sharing her personal experiences and insights on how media can influence public policy. Director Kelley Kali will also join the conversation and answer the audience’s questions. This event is more than just a film screening—it’s a call to action for those passionate about justice reform and creating meaningful change in the legal system. Reserve your ticket here.

Smith Pradia will return to the University of Pennsylvania on November 20 to give a talk on “Women, Mass Incarceration, and Reentry: Voices of the Forgotten.”

For those who can’t attend in person, Kemba is available to stream exclusively on BET+. Visit KembaMovie.com for more information on how to host your own screening and join the movement to reform mandatory minimum sentencing.