Yacine Helali - Filmmaker
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Yacine Helali, 30, is a French-Algerian filmmaker who created a film about the West End of Newcastle that he hopes will challenge people's perceptions of the Muslim community.

He said: "I have the same concerns that the Muslim community as a whole has about how the media misrepresents us. I just wanted to show that the reality is different. It is a social responsibility for Muslims to interact and benefit the society they live in to keep the youth off the streets and engage with them.

"Through this short film I wanted to show that we can coexist. People on the street find a way to meet and explore each other. Individuals and groups are doing things to improve cohesion in the community. This film demonstrates that people have plenty in common, contrary to what we often hear. We have the same concerns, the same hopes."

Yacine, who lives with wife Zofta and 17-month-old daughter Nusaybah, in Fenham, works for IDC - a charity that raises awareness about Islam and helps young people avoid the dangers of gang culture and anti-social behaviour.

He said: "I have come to the UK during a time when people feel invaded by foreigners so there has been a mixed response. I like living in Newcastle.

"I like Geordie people, I appreciate them, Newcastle is a city where people are approachable. But the reality is you will find a mixture of feelings from local people.

"But I believe that even though there is an economic crisis we can still promote cohesion among the communities. Through my work with IDC, we get a fantastic response and can see the changes in people's thoughts about Islam as they learn more."

Please click on the link below to watch the film (pop up window)