We make movies and take people on trips.
About
We like the definition of initiative as it speaks to our vision of being proactive in making positive contributions and changes within our local context, our larger world community and ourselves. The word initiative implies outcome without completion, thereby leaving space for ongoing possibilities. Those ongoing possibilities are what inspire us in our work.
The Human Picture Initiative (HPI) is finding and sharing compelling stories of inspiration in humanity. We do our best to use our experiences and expertise in documentary filmmaking and international travel to perpetuate ideas of people before nationality and sustainability before immediacy. To do this, we walk alongside our neighbors around the world to gain a better understanding of how we live individually, and how we impact our world collectively. Then, we work to share those discoveries to a broader audience.
How can we know others in our community if we’ve not met them? How can we meet them if no one introduces us? How can we be introduced if no one brings us together?
HPI is establishing these introductions through our films and experience trips as we facilitate the sharing of stories that we believe inspire appreciation for our differences and an understanding of our similarities. While we recognize the reality of what shapes our differences, we prefer to focus on the factor that makes us all similar, the “human factor.”
Nothing can make more sustainable change than that which comes from a shift in personal perceptions, not only of ourselves but also of our relationships to others around us. This perception of the human factor and our reliance on one another must be personal, relational and realized through individual interactions. Although our societies, families and circumstances shape us differently, merely being human makes us similar enough that, with intentional work, we are capable of living beyond our barriers. With purposeful action we can penetrate those things that separate us.
By observing, sharing the stories of and personally working along side, people living these principals, we are able to urge positive action in everyone who is compelled by what they see, and/or experience, with us. No matter how far apart we are in distance, culture and ideals, being together in our common human experience is a solid foundation for better understanding, mutual respect and conscientious living.
Being human is the force that compels us at HPI. It inspires us and drives us to compassionate living. The recognition that no one exists alone helps us discover, explore and share this hopeful side of the human race.
Cina Canada
Dax Bedell
Megan Celano
Scott Vaughan
Bethany Joy
Richard Herman