California to Ghana

This student film explores the experiences shared between a group of California and Ghanaian students united through the UCEAP study abroad program. It is a documented journey of self-reflection and revelations as well as cultural bonding and education. This documentary aims to promote global unity, peace, and prosperity as it celebrates strength in diversity.

  • Moriah HanJiaXiu Hayes
    Director
  • Moriah HanJiaXiu Hayes
    Writer
  • Moriah HanJiaXiu Hayes
    Producer
  • Louisa Ampolly
    Key Cast
  • Katakyie Agyemang-Prempeh
    Key Cast
  • Adwoa Gyamfuaa Marfo
    Key Cast
  • Mishal Al-asfour
    Key Cast
  • J. Michael Noone Jr.
    Key Cast
  • Blessing Morris
    Key Cast
  • Nyali Akili secka
    Key Cast
  • Rashidatu Dedei Cofie
    Key Cast
  • Irene Imani Kwangaba
    Key Cast
  • Bhavya Jha
    Key Cast
  • Moriah HanJiaXiu Hayes
    Editors
  • Joshua Cameron Orris
    Editors
  • Seth Wright
    Original Score
  • Shoghi Hayes
    Original Score
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Genres:
    Travel, International Affairs, Education, Study Abroad, Cultural Experiences
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 14 minutes 14 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    January 27, 2019
  • Production Budget:
    3,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    Ghana
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, 16-70mm, 4k, 24-120fps
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes
Distribution Information
  • Youtube
    Country: Worldwide
    Rights: All Rights
Director Biography - Moriah HanJiaXiu Hayes

I am a third year student at the University of California San Diego majoring in Communication and minoring in Ethnic Studies. I have a passion for telling stories and telling them in a way that maintains authenticity as much as possible.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

California to Ghana is my first feature length documentary shot, edited, directed, produced, and written all by me. It is to date my most ambitious project and one that I am immensely proud of. It is my version of a study abroad journal, documenting what I saw to be the most noteworthy aspects of Ghana.