SOWN FILMS
Every organization deserves to have their story told.
The following films are the ones that stood out and made an impression on us.
We have attempted to capture their essence in order to help fundraise and spread awareness about their given cause.
NDAHEI
Alexis, a survivor of Rwanda's war, knows firsthand the struggles of orphaned and vulnerable youth in the aftermath of conflict.
Born into the chaos of pre-genocide Rwanda, Alexis's journey was marked by hardship and resilience. Neglected by relatives, he forged his own path, determined to create a better future.
Now, thirty five years later, his organization NDAHEI provides a safe haven for Rwanda's orphaned youth, offering education, sports training, and a sense of community. Their sports program, especially cycling, not only promotes physical health but also fosters unity and healing in a country historically known for its separation.
Produced as part of the 2023 Passport Program in August of 2023
Wings International
In the middle of Tanuku, India lives a group of 27 families on the edge of a municipal trash dump. It is here that we find the story of Apayamma, a widowed mother of two children under the age of three.
Her story is a painful and tragic one... but it certainly doesn't end here. With the love and care of Wings International's Raja Kumar, her life and many others will be forever transformed.
Produced in November of 2022
Small Steps for Compassion
When Small Steps for Compassion bought their 12 acre piece of land in Arusha, Tanzania, they never imagined the level of impact that they would make. In 12 short years, they have taken in 25 orphaned girls from the surrounding area and given them a home, education, and love.
Follow the story of Winnie, one of the girls living in the home as she walks through all of the many facets that make Small Steps more than an orphanage, but truly a home.
Produced in October 2021
Hope For Haiti
Meet Justana, a mother living in rural southern Haiti, near Les Cayes. Her story encapsulates the struggles faced by many in accessing healthcare. Thanks to Hope for Haiti's mobile health clinic, Justana discovered a cervical lesion early, preventing the spread of cancer and ensuring her daughter keeps her mother.
In a region where healthcare is scarce, HFH has been a lifeline, providing vital medical services to over 100,000 patients annually. But with challenges mounting post-earthquake, their impact faces jeopardy.
Join us as we follow Justana's journey and witness HFH's efforts to build a sustainable healthcare campus, ensuring thousands like her can access lifesaving care.
Produced in 2024
The Empowerment Plan
More than 550,000 people experience homelessness on a given night in the United States and roughly 10,000 live in Michigan.
In the years since founding in 2012, Empowerment Plan has evolved from into an internationally recognized workforce development organization. By pairing full time employment with a wide range of supportive services, they have helped dozens of individuals achieve financial stability and independence for the whole family. Their holistic approach addresses everything from housing and childcare to transportation, education and more.
This is all achieved by making a beautiful coat for people experiencing homelessness, made by people who have transitioned out of homelessness.
Produced in March of 2022
Our Own
Our Own provides access and opportunity for kids living in underserved parts of Los Angeles. Follow the story of three kids, Mysaiah, Brea, and Eugene, whose life has been transformed by the work that Our Own is doing in their community.
Co-founder Lee Johnson always says, "You can't be what you can't see" and Our Own is setting out to help these kids see themselves in positions of leadership and management by giving them access to spaces not often afforded to kids from their neighborhoods. Founder Dustin Young reminds the audience to "Live full, and die empty" and you can see how that saying permeates everything the team at Our Own does.
Produced in March of 2021
For The Unseen
Step into the extraordinary world of Maya, a determined young Syrian mother who defied the odds to pursue an education and create a better future for her two children. In this inspiring video, we delve into Maya's journey, made possible through the unwavering support of Birds of Hope, a valued partner of For The Unseen.
Witness Maya's resilience as she completes her schooling and works relentlessly to ensure her children receive the education they deserve. Through Maya's story, we discover the transformative power of education and the urgent need to address the educational gaps faced by Syrian refugee children.
For The Unseen, a dedicated organization, is working to build a school that will provide a safe haven for these often overlooked children. Join us on this emotional and empowering journey as we shed light on the importance of education in breaking the cycle of displacement and adversity. To get involved visit: www.fortheunseen.org
Produced in 2023
The Ceres Community Project
The Ceres Community project is dedicated to bringing healthy and organic foods to people who need it most. Their model teaches youth to cultivate food in a garden, bring that food into a commercial kitchen, where they learn the ropes of a professional kitchen. The meals that they grow and prepare are then delivered to individuals battling diet related illnesses. This film follows the story of Hannah Ricolli, who experienced the power of Ceres, from both sides of the exchange.
Produced in May of 2021
Milele Home
On the streets of Kitale, Kenya youth turn to glue and other drugs to numb the pain and hardship of street life.
Milele Home was created to help rehabilitate these young boys and restore them back to hope and family reintegration. The organizational goal is to build a new campus to serve dozens more boys in the next year.
This film was shot by Gian Carlo Stigliano and Ryan Pham.
Produced in October 2022
Project Quetzal
In the highlands of Lago Atitlan, education for indigenous Mayan children is suffering. Follow the story of one mother who turned to Project Quetzal in order to change her own story, along with dozens other in her community.
Produced in July of 2023