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Taking Flight

In an area where traditional education fails students, one Mayan woman starts her own school in order to rebuild her community from the ground up. Through integral education, which includes meals for students and workshops for their parents, Ingrid Villasenor strengthens her home of Panajachel one step at a time.

Password for viewing on Vimeo is: panajachel

  • Will Chehab
    Director
  • Abby Pflueger
    Producer
  • Lauren Higgins
    Cinemetographer
  • Brenda Pena
    Editor
  • Will Chehab
    Editor
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    10 minutes 31 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    July 28, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    0 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    Guatemala
  • Language:
    Spanish
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - University of Michigan, Eastern Washington University, University of Washington
Distribution Information
  • Actuality Abroad
    Country: United States
    Rights: All Rights
Director Biography - Will Chehab

Will Chehab was born in New York City and raised in Evanston, Illinois. He is currently finishing his senior year at the University of Michigan with a degree in Film, Television, and Media with a Screenwriting sub-major. Chehab has always had a deep love for storytelling since a young age, and has been making movies and music with his friends since he was 8. He currently has several films in pre-production, production, and post-production as he finishes his studies, as he is always eager to tell the next great story.

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Director Statement

My goal in directing Taking Flight is to bring light to the incredible story of Ingrid and Tejiendo Futuros. For someone to dedicate their life to their country after its government tremendously hurt their family is so powerful. The dedication to her country and her people make Ingrid's story one that needs to be seen by the world. I want those watching to realize they can be the change they wish to see in the world and the power in seeing each other as humans above all. I hope you are inspired by Ingrid and her story.