As a filmmaker, please introduce yourself.

Allow me to introduce myself. I am a partner at HQ Creative LLC, an Emmy Award winning production company and branding agency 

serving clients throughout the world. As an independent filmmaker I have produced award winning documentaries that have provided 

compelling historical and cultural information to audiences. My films have focused on embodying the spirit of achievement thereby 

providing positive visual images and messages for all; regardless of age, gender or ethnicity. These documentaries have been screened internationally by film festivals and educational institutions. They have also been included in Museum exhibits and library collections.

Why you became a filmmaker as director and producer?

My parents taught me through their own actions, that it is incumbent upon each of us to recognize that we have the capacity as well as the responsibility to care for one another and to do for each other regardless of gender, race, physical or mental handicaps or religious beliefs. 

 This is a moral challenge that each of us must address, especially if we aspire to live in a more peaceful world.

I chose to commit myself to this challenge by using film as a means to create awareness and acknowledge persons who have made social contributions to their respective societies. Individuals who have succeeded in improving the quality of life in their communities 

and cultures are role models whose stories need to be told. As a filmmaker it has been a privilege to share several of these compelling 

stories with global audiences and provide an opportunity for education, discussion and growth.

Give some more information about yourself and the films you have made so far, about your experience?

Everyone has a story to be shared. As an independent documentary producer I listen and respond to those stories that both expand 

my knowledge and also touch my emotions. One documentary that I produced, “Fighting to be Free” began during a breakfast 

meeting that I had with the First Lady of Ethiopia, Azeb Mesfin regarding an educational initiative. 

 The First Lady together with several of her friends began reminiscing about their teenage years and their unique education 

when they chose to join the fight for freedom. As I listened to what was shared with me I was in awe of these women. 

They began their narrative as heroic female freedom fighters who created a special sisterhood of rural and urban, literate and illiterate young women. They then challenged cultural norms and emerged as leaders within the armed struggle for freedom. 

 Finally they were able to champion the inclusion of gender equality in the Ethiopian Constitution and thereby provide a continuing 

legacy to insure freedom for future generations of Ethiopian women. They were “Fighting to be Free” and they won. Needless to say, 

I felt compelled to share the stories of these remarkable women. In another award award winning documentary, 

“WishMakers” I tell the story of the unique partnership existing in the Tulip Winery between the Yitzchaki Family and 

the adult special needs residents of Kfar Tikvah, the Village of Hope. Adults with special needs who would typically be avoided 

and be referred to in the negative as “feeble minded” or as “retards” are employed in the winery with respect and dignity. 

 This documentary is meant to celebrate each of these individuals and teach the audience to appreciate them, without prejudice. 

 We need to remember the Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would want to have done for yourself.”