Alumni Interview with Michael Serpell

What inspired you to go abroad?

There is something unique and wonderful about traveling overseas and having unforgettable experiences that help shape you as a person. To me going abroad is a key essential to a purposeful life, knowing there's a way to make a positive impact on the world through facilitators such as Actuality Media honestly makes the world a better place and makes you a better person.

Why did you choose Actuality Media?

Actuality Media offered me an opportunity which I never could've imagined—the opportunity to travel to Guatemala and produce a change making film about the struggling local communities of the countries rural area, it was honestly an incredible feat.

Actuality Media offered an experience that people in film school would never get, they don't just teach you everything there is to know about filmmaking, but they actually show you and allow you to demonstrate your skills in the communities of Guatemala.

It is a sensational program that Actuality Media offered me and it honestly changed my life. The benefits it has had on my filmmaking and on me as a person goes far beyond just making an inspirational film. I couldn't recommend them more highly.

What was your favorite part about Guatemala?

I loved seeing an authentic Central American country through the Actuality Media documentary outreach program. Guatemala was an absolute gem, and in particular, where we stayed was honestly beautiful. Antigua is a town which breeds good vibes, it was incredibly safe, very historic, scenically gorgeous, and the backdrop of the volcanoes was simply breathtaking.

My favorite part about the country was without a doubt the people. They were so generous and welcoming and they introduced me to the local customs, took me around their amazing country, and without the fantastic leaders of Actuality Media, none of this would've been possible. We were very well looked after.

What made your experience abroad unique?

My experience abroad was unique in I had never made a professional film overseas, I had never traveled to Central America, I had never climbed a volcano, produced a documentary, spoke in front of a Spanish speaking crowd, rode a rainbow bus, tried a Horchata, visited an organic coffee plantation, ziplined across a jungle canopy, and salsa danced. All of these experiences mentioned were things I was trying for the first time. The experience was incredible. There was never a day that went by that I wasn't full of joy and marvel. It was truly unique and wonderful.

How did local staff support you throughout your program?

The local staff were so helpful, despite the small language barrier they were incredibly accommodating and so friendly all hours of the day. Their support made my job as a producer so much easier, I was able to have open channels of communication and I was able to achieve a lot through their support. Without them the film would simply not be possible.

What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?

The only thing I would've done differently would be staying for longer. If I didn't have to rush back to university in Australia I would've stayed longer and explored the region a lot more thoroughly. I would have loved to explored the fascinating cultures of the surrounding Central American countries as well.

Describe a typical day in the life of your program.

Here is the wonderful part of this experience: no two days were the same. There was always something unique about the days which stood out from the others. But to summarize a typical day in the life, there was always a big and delicious breakfast which would be set up on the scenic rooftop overlooking the towering volcanoes in the distance. The day would consist of film activities, possibly a small lecture followed by a practical exercise which at times took us into the heart of the Antiguan community.

Most days I would visit my change maker group Eco Filtro, filming, signing forms, planning shoots, communicating with our interviewees and getting to know my surroundings. There would often be downtime to see more of the city and a chance to have a unique lunch. In the evenings we would watch films and be inspired. We would even screen some of our own work. We had a great group of filmmakers which definitely helped in the final product and having an awesome crew of people made each day a joy.

What did you enjoy doing in your free time?

I enjoyed walking around Antigua watching life go by. Observing everyday life for Guatemalans is fascinating. It was awesome being guided by my nose eating at some incredible restaurants and really exploring the city in depth. On the weekends we would always do something really adventurous which made for more bonding time between the group and really gave us a taste for the uniqueness of the nation.

What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?

The accommodation was really well located. It was super close to great food options and it was in a quiet area which helped us focus and sleep at night. The dorm rooms were super comfortable and not too cramped. The food at the hostel was incredible—the breakfast and dinners were always so flavorsome, it was impressive. I really enjoyed the accommodation, it was secure, well presented, and very friendly.

What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?

Every participant should have a willingness muscle. Say yes to your experiences. As a filmmaker we are constantly challenged by every aspect of life, because in order to capture life you need to see it through the lens of your subjects.

Step into their shoes and feel what they feel, that is important. Be willing to explore deep emotions with your subjects, be prepared to cry or laugh with them, be prepared to sacrifice, and be prepared to be blown away by your finished product—we certainly were.

Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?

110% this experience has no doubt made me a better person. It has opened up my mind, heart, and soul and has given me plenty of strive for. I am a better person for this time abroad. I am living proof of the success of this program—I would not be writing this from America right now if this experience wasn't impactful. I am a long way from home in Australia, but it's fair to say if it wasn't for Actuality Media's Documentary Outreach Program, I would not be pursuing my dreams in this part of the world. It truly shows how one trip can change the entire course of your life.

Would you recommend Actuality Media to others? Why?

I would recommend this experience to anyone and everyone. This experience will no doubt change your life for the better. It will give you perspectives that you never thought you could receive. It will challenge you so that you will have to be strong, but you will be. You will return home as a different and better person. You cannot put a price tag on an experience, especially one that changes your life and reminds you how lucky and special you are.