ASNI: The Life of Asnaketch Worku - Courage, Passion & Glamor in Ethiopia
February 19, 2026, 7:00 P.M.
The Ray Stark Family Theatre, SCA 108, George Lucas Building, USC School of Cinematic Arts Complex, 900 W. 34th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90007
Outside the Box [Office] and the KITFO Film Festival invite you and a guest to attend
A Special Theatrical Screening of
ASNI: The Life of Asnaketch Worku -
Courage, Passion & Glamor in Ethiopia
A Film by Rachel Samuel
7:00 P.M. on Thursday, February 19th, 2026
The Ray Stark Family Theater, SCA 108
George Lucas Building, USC School of Cinematic Arts Complex
900 W. 34th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90007
FREE ADMISSION. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. RSVPs REQUIRED.
RSVPs ARE NON-TRANSFERABLE.
FOOD AND DRINKS ARE STRICTLY PROHIBITED IN THE AUDITORIUM.
CLICK HERE TO RSVP
About ASNI: The Life of Asnaketch Worku - Courage, Passion & Glamor in Ethiopia
ASNI is a vibrant and deeply personal documentary that celebrates the life and legacy of Asnaketch Worku, one of Ethiopia’s most extraordinary artists, a performer as iconic to her homeland as Billie Holiday is to America and Édith Piaf is to France.
From the moment young filmmaker Rachel Samuel first heard Asnaketch’s voice on her father’s radio in Addis Ababa, the singer’s music took root in her soul. Decades later, Samuel realized it was her destiny to tell Asnaketch’s story, not just as a singular talent, but as a woman who dared to defy tradition and redefine artistry in a deeply conservative society.
Through archival footage, intimate interviews, and soul stirring performances, ASNI traces Asnaketch’s rise to becoming Ethiopia’s leading actress, singer, and cultural pioneer in the 1950s and 60s, a time when female performers were often dismissed or maligned. Her artistry, fearless presence, and unapologetic glamour challenged social norms and left an indelible mark on Ethiopian music and theatre.
More than a biography, this film is a love letter to Ethiopian culture, music, and the power of creative expression, and a testament to a woman whose courage and passion continue to inspire.
Running time: 80 minutes. Ethiopia. 2013. In Amharic with English subtitles.
About the KITFO Film Festival
KITFO TV is built by filmmakers & cultural workers committed to amplifying Ethiopian & Eritrean cinema on the continent and across the diaspora.
Now in its second year, The KITFO Film Festival is a global platform dedicated to celebrating Ethiopian and Eritrean cinema and storytelling from the Horn of Africa and its diaspora. A one-of-a-kind experience, KITFO connects filmmakers, industry professionals, and culture lovers from across the globe for three unforgettable days of film screenings, thought-provoking panels, exclusive mixers, and deep community connection.
What began in Los Angeles in 2024 as the first festival of its kind has now expanded internationally, with a sister edition launched in Addis Ababa this past January — solidifying KITFO as a cultural bridge between the diaspora and the continent.
The 2025 festival took place September 19–21 in Los Angeles, with programming across premier venues in the city presenting curated selections of films, masterclasses, networking, and celebratory events spotlighting emerging and established voices shaping the future of East African cinema.
About Outside the Box [Office]
Outside the Box [Office] is a weekly showcase for upcoming releases highlighting world cinema, documentary and independent film titles. The series draws from around the globe to present movies that may challenge, inspire or simply entertain.
To view the calendar of screenings, click here
To SUBSCRIBE to our MAILING LIST for upcoming free screenings and events, e-mail the word "Subscribe" to: aago@cinema.usc.edu
Check-In & Reservations
The USC School of Cinematic Arts operates all of its programs and activities consistent with the University’s Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor.
This screening is free of charge and open to the public. A reservation confirmation will automatically be sent to your e-mail account upon successfully making an RSVP through this website. Doors will open at 6:30 P.M.
All SCA screenings are OVERBOOKED to ensure seating capacity in the theater, therefore seating is not guaranteed based on RSVPs. The RSVP list will be checked in on a first-come, first-served basis until the theater is full. Once the theater has reached capacity, we will no longer be able to admit guests, regardless of RSVP status.
Accessibility Needs
Individuals with disabilities who need accommodations to attend this event may contact Alessandro Ago, Assistant Dean, Programming and Special Events, at aago@cinema.usc.edu or 213-740-2330. It is requested that individuals requiring accommodations or auxiliary aids such as sign language interpreters and alternative format materials notify us at least seven days prior to the event. Every reasonable effort will be made to provide reasonable accommodations in an effective and timely manner.
Parking
On-campus parking at the University of Southern California is limited. We recommend buying a day pass for the Royal Street Structure, located at the intersection of Royal Street and W. Jefferson Blvd. Parking passes are $20/car. For more information about parking at USC, please visit USC Transportation Website:
https://transnet.usc.edu/index.php/daily-and-hourly-parking/
https://transnet.usc.edu/index.php/about-us/entrance-hours/
Contact Information
Name: Alessandro Ago
Email: aago@cinema.usc.edu