Documentary Storytelling That Elevates Your Nonprofit’s Mission

The Story Behind the Film: Educating a Nation

Making Educating a Nation, a documentary about the Zambia Scholarship Fund (ZSF), was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my career. Everything for our month-long production had to fit into our carry-on luggage. My partner and co-producer—an incredible storyteller in her own right—learned how to record production audio in just a week (and did an incredible job, by the way). With our bags packed and our focus set on capturing a story that would inspire new sponsors, we set off for Zambia, prepared—but never fully expecting the hurdles ahead.

One of the most unforgettable moments came early on. After a long day traveling in the back of a Toyota Land Cruiser to one of the remote villages ZSF supports, our driver contracted malaria. We were hours deep into the rural Zambian bush, far from medical help. But it wasn’t just the logistics that tested us—it was witnessing firsthand the struggles these children face.

In Zambia, publicly funded education ends after grade seven. From that point on, the financial burden of schooling falls entirely on families, many of whom must pin their hopes on a single child to receive an education and lift everyone out of poverty. Each student we met had a remarkable story—how they fought for access to education, and what they dreamed of achieving once they reached college. Their courage and perseverance in the face of hardship is something I will never forget.

I was honored to share their stories as authentically as I could, even as an outsider. The experience moved us so deeply that, after our trip, we became sponsors ourselves. The impact this nonprofit has on the lives of these students is profound. I encourage you to watch the film and see for yourself just how transformative education can be.

‍

The Power of Documentary Storytelling for Nonprofits

This project reinforced something I’ve always believed—storytelling is one of the most powerful tools a nonprofit can use to connect with donors, advocates, and the broader community. Facts and figures can tell people what a nonprofit does, but a well-crafted documentary allows them to feel the impact on a human level. Seeing these students’ struggles and triumphs firsthand makes their need for support undeniable.

For nonprofits, video storytelling isn’t just a way to document their work—it’s a way to grow their mission, inspire action, and build lasting connections with those who want to help. Whether it’s increasing donations, securing grants, or simply spreading awareness, a compelling documentary can bridge the emotional gap between a cause and the people who have the power to support it.

If your nonprofit is looking to expand its reach and make a deeper impact, I’d love to help tell your story.

‍

‍