Sterling said the film had an “incredible outpour of responses” during question and answer screenings.
“Each room, when we had the Q&As, it opened up the most incredible conversations with the audiences.”
She added: “This is what I love about art.
“We have the beautiful format of film where a huge village of wonderful creative people can make something but ultimately we’re showing a version of the world that’s maybe what something could look like or sometimes what things actually do look like that people aren’t aware of.
“When I found out about some of the things that happen in the country I just couldn’t believe it and cared too much to ignore it and I hope that people feel the same.”
The actress said she joined director Hudson and other members of the cast in parliament on Tuesday, discussing policies and legislation connected to the film.
This year’s winner of the The EE Rising Star Award – which is the only Bafta film prize to be voted for by the public – will be announced at the awards ceremony in February.