Ferasha Films

In 2008, I established the non-profit organization Ferasha Films, spurred by my experiences on college trips to Rwanda and India. However, my journey into the realm of documentary filmmaking took an unexpected turn when I delved into the compelling narratives within my own community. In 2012, I collaborated with a dedicated group of volunteers to create "The Backyard Philly Project," a documentary that sheds light on the lives of four teenagers residing in the projects of Philadelphia. This project aimed to unveil the harsh realities often overlooked, and its impact was acknowledged when the Philadelphia Geek Society recognized it as the Best Feature Length Film of 2013. The documentary follows the lives of these teens in Penn Town, an inner-city neighborhood, emphasizing their transformation through the Helping Hand Rescue Mission's tutoring and character-building activities. Filming commenced in October 2011, concluding in June 2012, and incorporates footage captured on individual cameras provided to the teens. The non-profit organization is now run by Adam Bruckner, who is the reason I worked on The Backyard Philly Project in the first place.