Sawandi Groskind was born in Memphis, TN, USA, and raised in Jakobstad (Pietarsaari), Finland. He began making films and experimental shorts in 2003 while attending art school and has since written and directed a number of award-winning shorts that have been shown at renowned festivals around the world. His work often features non-linear storytelling and frequently explores themes of loss, desire, and family history. Working outside Finland’s commercial film industry, Sawandi has actively promoted experimental and hybrid narrative filmmaking both locally and internationally.