RTÉ doc shines spotlight on Leitrim hurler Zak Moradi’s journey from Iraq

Born in a refugee camp on the day the Gulf War broke out, Zak Moradi’s life began in chaos — but his journey led him to Leitrim, where he found belonging through sport and community.

Home: The Story of Zak Moradi is an RTÉ documentary that traces Zak’s extraordinary path from war-torn Iraq to the hurling fields of rural Ireland. Featuring intimate interviews with Zak and his family, the film explores their escape from conflict, the challenges of rebuilding a life in a new country, and the deep sense of identity and purpose Zak found through the GAA.

Despite the odds, Zak flourished. He learned English, integrated into local life in Carrick-on-Shannon, and went on to become a celebrated GAA player — representing Leitrim at senior level and becoming a voice for inclusion in Irish sport.

Two decades after leaving Iraq, Zak returns in the film on a deeply emotional journey to reconnect with his past — offering a powerful reflection on resilience, memory and the true meaning of home.

Directed by Irish filmmaker Trevor Whelan, the documentary blends cinematic storytelling with raw, heartfelt testimony. Whelan, whose award-winning work has screened internationally, says:

“It was an honour being trusted to lead this documentary and tell Zak’s story of resilience and hope. His journey from Iraq to Ireland is inspiring and illustrates the important duty we have to offer shelter and care to those who are vulnerable and persecuted.”

With a creative team including Ciaran Murray (Editor), Eric Whelan (Composer), and Rua Meegan (Director of Photography), Home delivers a powerful message of strength, belonging, and the unifying force of sport.

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