Building Bridges Through Film

Today’s world feels divided, with issues like reproductive freedom, global conflicts, and systemic injustice highlighting the growing polarization caused by our lack of connection. Adding to this, the pandemic has accelerated social isolation, fraying the bonds that hold our communities together. What if we could transform these tough conversations into moments of connection? That’s the goal of Project My Voice: to use film and expert-guided dialogue to foster empathy and understanding.

Film has the unique ability to immerse us in stories that engage both our hearts and minds. I’ve always believed that storytelling is one of the most powerful ways to bridge divides. Growing up, I often felt the power of stories to shape how we see the world. Whether it was sitting with my family watching thought-provoking films or hearing my grandmother’s tales of resilience, I learned early on that stories connect us in ways facts alone never could. When we watch a documentary like 13th, we don’t just learn about systemic racism—we feel it. When we see The Present, it’s not just an Israel-Palestine conflict—it’s a father’s love for his daughter, and we feel that too. Films make abstract issues personal, inviting us to see the world through someone else’s eyes. They spark emotions that resonate long after the credits roll, planting seeds of understanding and opening our minds to new perspectives.

My journey to this work has been shaped by my diverse experiences. As an attorney, I worked closely with young adults and abused and neglected children, witnessing firsthand how trauma impacts communication and trust. Later, as an executive coach to Fortune 100 companies, I helped build high-performing teams by fostering environments of psychological safety and mutual respect. These experiences taught me that whether in a courtroom, a boardroom, or a classroom, connection and understanding are the foundation of progress.

Our approach is rooted in positive psychology and communication science. By focusing on shared values and experiences, we create a foundation for meaningful dialogue. Participants don’t just watch films—they step into conversations equipped with tools like active listening and perspective-taking, skills that not only reduce polarization but also foster genuine trust. These conversations become an opportunity to challenge assumptions, share vulnerabilities, and build relationships that transcend ideological differences.

At Project My Voice, films are just the starting point. Expert facilitators guide transformative discussions where participants do more than talk—they connect. In these spaces, people from all walks of life come together to share their stories, listen deeply, and learn from one another. This isn’t just about empathy; it’s about action. It’s about equipping people to stand up to injustice, to foster understanding, and to build stronger, more united communities. When participants leave, they take these tools into their homes, schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods, creating ripples of change that extend far beyond the initial dialogue.

In a time when avoiding hard conversations feels easier and social isolation feels overwhelming, Project My Voice offers a way through the discomfort. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. By stepping into these conversations, we not only address the issues that divide us but also strengthen the bonds that unite us. Together, we can tackle the tough stuff—one film, one dialogue, one step closer to unity. And in doing so, we can imagine a world where understanding and compassion replace fear and division—a world where every voice has the power to create change.