Private Project

Portrait of a Seaweed Farmer: Ana Borrero, PhD

Portrait of a Seaweed Farmer: Ana Borrero, PhD, follows a Spanish marine scientist who leaves behind a high-stress academic career to cultivate something far more sustainable—seaweed and a life in balance. Now working in coastal Norway, Ana channels her scientific expertise into growing an industry poised to combat climate change through regenerative farming. With humor, heart, and humility, Ana reflects on her journey from a microscope-loving child to working mother of two, driven by both environmental urgency and a desire to be present for her young family. A deeply personal look at how one woman found meaning—and a future—beneath the surface.

This film is part of a series funded by a grant from World Wildlife Fund, created to spotlight individuals leading the charge in ocean restoration and sustainable livelihoods. The two other films in the series are available to screen as well. You can view the films at the links below:

Nick Mangini — https://filmfreeway.com/PortraitofaSeaweedFarmerNickMangini
Password: PoaSWF_Nick

Matt Obee — https://filmfreeway.com/PortraitofaSeaweedFarmerMattObee
Password: PoaSWF_Matt

  • Todd Paige
    Executive Producers
  • Jeff Siebert
    Executive Producers
  • Jeff Siebert
    Director
  • Lilah Ann Kohlman
    Producer
  • Ana Borrero
    Key Cast
    "Jeff Siebert"
  • Tyler Boyd
    Editors
  • Jeff Siebert
    Editors
  • Jeff Siebert
    Writer
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short
  • Genres:
    Environmental, Character Portrait, Biography, Science & Nature, Ocean Conservation, Women's Stories, Sustainability, Climate Change
  • Runtime:
    10 minutes 11 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    July 9, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    50,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States, United States
  • Country of Filming:
    Norway
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    RED
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2.4:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Jeff Siebert
Distribution Information
  • Jeff Siebert
    Country: United States
Director Biography - Jeff Siebert

Jeff Siebert is an Emmy-nominated director and founder of Bananabones, a creative production company based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Since launching in 2009, Jeff has led Bananabones in crafting award-winning commercials, television series, and branded short-form content for Fortune 500 companies and global organizations. His work spans 45 U.S. states and 11 countries, blending cinematic storytelling with strategic clarity across mediums.

In 2022, Jeff directed the six-episode documentary series If These Walls Could Rock for AXS TV, earning a national Emmy nomination for its compelling look into America’s most iconic music venues. His creative vision is rooted in authenticity, often spotlighting real people and places with emotional depth and visual flair. Whether he's filming in a remote fjord or a sold-out concert hall, Jeff brings a signature blend of curiosity, craft, and heart to every project.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

When I first met Ana Borrero, I was struck not only by her deep knowledge of marine science, but by her quiet defiance of what a traditional career—or a traditional climate solution—should look like. Portrait of a Seaweed Farmer is, at its core, about one woman’s decision to step away from the pressures of academia and into a life rooted in purpose, sustainability, and family.

As a filmmaker, I’m drawn to human stories that challenge expectations and illuminate the personal side of global issues. Ana’s journey offered an opportunity to show how environmental action can be both deeply scientific and profoundly personal. Seaweed farming isn’t just a symbol of climate hope; it’s a tangible, scalable, and beautiful act of resistance.

In a world overwhelmed by abstract solutions and doomsday headlines, I wanted this film to feel intimate, grounded, and real. It’s a quiet film about a quiet revolution—and I’m honored to help bring Ana’s voice and vision to the surface.

—Jeff Siebert
Director, Portrait of a Seaweed Farmer