What happens when you give a woman a chance? What happens when a woman receives the support she needs to pursue a career outside of the societal oppression that binds her? The answer is a whole lot.
Our film takes viewers on a journey alongside Margaret, Astridah,
and Crispina; three Tanzanian women who were able to push against oppressive constructs and emerge as
leaders in their community. By shadowing these women and learning about their obstacles and victories, we will share the untold story of
Africa. One filled with hope, love, and positive change.
Every team and crew member on this project is volunteering their time and talents and 100% of any profits
made will go to supporting these women and other community leaders in Tanzania.
Join us!
The Team
This film is not about us; it's about using our resources, passion, and creativity to share the stories of incredible women already working tirelessly to create real change for the people of Tanzania. But if you're wondering who we are...
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AUDREY EMERSON BRANDON SOMERHALDER KALLAN BENJAMIN
Director/Producer Director of Photography Associate Producer
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EMMETT COOKE KATE KELLEYAND JOHN LAVALL
Composer Editors - DEVLO MEDIA
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MICHAEL TAYLOR ANNE WELLS
We are a team of passionate experienced filmmakers and entrepreneurs with shared interests in social justice, international exploration, and the power of film and media. We want to share these women's stories with a broad audience in order to promote a cross-cultural understanding of life in this East African country.
Meet the Women:
These are the three incredible women who we will be profiling. Click their pictures to learn more about their stories.
ASTRIDAH
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Astridah was the former headmistress of the
Sega School for Girls. Her expansive background in education has led her to create business and micro-loan opportunities for the young girls who otherwise have no chance. She is currently working to operate a small business on her farm through which she hopes to create vocational opportunities for her community.
SISTER CRISPINA
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Sister Crispina is the founder of St. Joseph's orphanage. Crispina singlehandedly adopted and cares for 43 children, each of whom she sends to private school while also running a primary school on site for the youngest children. She is the voice for these otherwise abandoned children who without her, would have no chance.
MARGARET
Margaret is a Maasai women with a
teaching and education background. She is responsible for the direct sales
of Tanzania Maasai Women Art (TMWA). TMWA is micro enterprise that is
committed to creating a stable and sustainable income source for
the rural Maasai women.
What We Are Asking For: $8,500
Our total fundraising goal is $23,000. We have raised $5,400 so far but have a long way to go.
We are asking for your support to fund our flights, baggage fees, and our equipment purchase and rental. This portion of our total need is the most vital part of our project (we can't shoot without a camera!).
If we can successfully reach our goal of $8,500 we are confident that we will be able to make this film, and build great momentum to then continue to raise the rest of our needed funds.
Thanks to our fiscal sponsor From the Heart Productions, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, your donation is tax deductible and will go directly to The Pamoja Project, whether or not we reach our fundraising goal.
On top of all of that great news, we are offering some excellent perks, like:
- Exclusive photos and video from the set
- Producer credits
- Gifts from Tanzania
- And more, of course :) !
Challenges:
We are lucky to be working with an amazing team that is committed to making this film a reality. However we are well aware of the nature of filming in a foreign country. Things change rapidly and we have to be able to adapt and think on our feet. We are excited about this challenge and feel confident that we will be able to produce an amazing final film because of our incredible partners and supporters. We are ready for anything!
Impact
This is not just another documentary about Africa. The Pamoja Project is part of a movement
to change the perception of Africa. While poverty and struggle are widespread in Tanzania,
there are local heroes doing incredible things to uplift their own communities. It’s time to talk
to them, hear what they have to say, and find out how we can support them. We live in a world
that is more connected then ever and yet Africa still remains a distant “other.” It’s time to
break down those boundaries and uplift each other.
Because of these goals, we want to share this film with as many people as possible. Upon completion we plan to host multiple screenings, distribute to schools, run a PBS special, and submit to film festivals.
Join us!!!
So give as much as you can, or, if you can't donate, consider sharing the campaign with others! Or check our website for more ways to get involved. We are so grateful for any and all forms of support, we hope you join us and become a part of this amazing project.
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Thank you! Asante sana
Thanks to our supporters: