While International Baccalaureate is recognized for its first-class educational curriculum, the international organization wanted to create a far more active outlet for students to make a difference in the “real world.” From poets and painters to politicians and public leaders, the IB started building a coalition that could define what it is like to live in the “meaning crisis.” But how do you describe this community of big thinkers before it’s even a thing? Our team of marketers put together a high-concept, cinematic “trailer” to tease the IB’s ambitious new plans. Justin wrote a shiver-inducing script, while Favata and Chelsie chose stunning, moving visuals that spoke to a global audience. Their work brought intrigue and inspiration to viewers and officially announced a stunning new chapter for the IB.
“Festival of Hope” Global Initiative
LAI Video was thrilled to help International Baccalaureate launch their new global initiative, the Festival of Hope. Though still in its infancy, the Festival of Hope has grown from a feeling—a desire to inspire—to an ongoing event series with real impact, and LAI Video has supported IB every step of the way, producing a proper teaser “trailer,” refining their program launch, and filming on-site for the program’s first two signature events.
Defining a Feeling
Creating A Community for Change
The Festival of Hope is many things, including a series of localized events at schools across the globe. Approaching the debut event in in Chicago, we had a lot of questions: what will the program look like? How will it keep students engaged? How will it be unique from future events? And how can we effectively capture this experience through video? With a two-crew team, we descended on Back of the Yards College Preparatory High School to film all major stage presentations AND pickup interviews and roundtable discussions with event participants. Cinematographers Jun and Donovan worked the room and sat in on conversations, prompted brainstorms, and used candid interactions to complete the picture of a community being formed. Chelsie brought this grounded approach overseas, to the second event at UWC Atlantic College in Cardiff, working closely with the school and our Welsh production partners.
Providing Accessibility to Inspiration
Following these events, we produced two distinct highlights videos to promote the Festival of Hope’s impact to future school communities. Beyond the events, we curated our content into easily accessible video presentations for on-demand viewing, offering a powerful catalogue of ideas as IB quickly prepares its next season of in-person gatherings.
Chelsie Pennello
A recent graduate of Syracuse University’s film program and track and field team, Chelsie brought her love for video production and everybody’s least favorite physical activity to the LAI Video team.
James Favata
As the Vice President of Creative at LAI Video, James offers his docu-style and motion graphics expertise to transform brands and campaigns. He’s won numerous accolades, including two Emmy® Awards as a Director, for his incredible storytelling and vision.
Helena Lehman
Helena is Leading Authorities’ Senior Vice President of Client Services, responsible for growing business among its clientele of national associations and corporations. During her 25 year tenure with LAI, she’s built relationships across diverse industry groups and identified common needs in content strategy and communications.
Justin Kelly
As LAI Video’s Senior Writer and Editor, Justin moves people to action with his impeccable command of language and narrative. With a decade of experience in technical writing, editing, and project management, Justin balances detail and emotion to create award-winning videos.
Donovan Randolph
Donovan is one of LAI Video’s multi-talented cinematographers and editors. His smooth grip and creative eye has produced feature-length action films, imaginative music videos, and award-winning shorts.
Jun Young Yang
Jun is the Director of Photography for LAI Video. His sharp eye and even sharper focus have earned him a reputation as an industry-leading cinematographer. He started his career freelancing before becoming a staple on the LAI Video team.
