Director/Producer

Christen Simone is the granddaughter of Richard Steele, a filmmaker and Spelman College alumna with an economics degree. She is currently building a diverse portfolio through directing, producing, writing, and assistant directing independent film projects. She loves distribution and programming and hopes to explore more in that space.

Assistant Director

Yodit Tesfu is a multimedia creative and Media Administrator who blends her background in neuroscience with a passion for community, culture, and storytelling. Rooted in Chicago, Ethiopia, and Eritrea, she uses film, music, and design as tools to spark dialogue and mobilize collective action.

Cinematographer

Born in Vietnam and immigrating to the U.S. at 15, Phat draws from the duality of his cultural experience to shape a visual storytelling style that finds beauty in both the extraordinary and the everyday. Guided by the belief that “beautiful things don’t ask for attention,” his work captures quiet moments that speak volumes.

Producer

Mitch founded Surecast Media, a Chicago-native-led production company that created impactful content and compelling short films. With a B.A. in Business Marketing from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a strong background in both media and entrepreneurship, he continues to bring stories to life through thoughtful collaboration and creative vision.

Producer

Producer

Olivia is a creative producer with hands-on experience in narrative and commercial filmmaking. She is currently pursuing a BFA in Film and Television Production at DePaul University. She has produced and assistant-directed various projects, from short films and music videos to a feature film. She recently expanded her expertise as a freelance producer with a Chicago-based commercial production company.

Producer

Tanja is a producer passionate about turning creative visions into reality, whether on set, in post-production, or managing logistics. With experience in the Swiss and German film industries and over 30 projects produced at DePaul University, she thrives on building connections and creating collaborative spaces where every team member’s talent shines.

Research Assistant

Zahra is a Chicago-born leader, facilitator, and storyteller committed to amplifying our shared humanity through meaningful narratives. An alumna of North Carolina A&T State University with a background in Liberal Studies and Psychology, she brings strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills to every project she takes on.