Dallas, TX – March 17, 2025 – ion Philanthropy and Cinema Nomad today announced a strategic partnership to support the upcoming season one launch of a groundbreaking travel-culture series on public television. The series, created and directed by filmmaker Stephanie Gardner, explores the intersection of global cinema and local cultures, offering viewers a unique perspective on the world through the lens of independent filmmakers.
The partnership will provide crucial funding and resources to support both the present and future of Cinema Nomad. ion Philanthropy, known for its dedication to supporting impactful cultural and educational initiatives, recognizes the series’ potential to foster cross-cultural understanding and appreciation for diverse artistic voices.
“We are incredibly excited to partner with Cinema Nomad on this extraordinary project,” said Jeff Pacini, founder of ion Philanthropy. “This series aligns perfectly with our mission to support initiatives that inspire positive change. Stephanie’s vision to connect viewers with filmmakers from around the globe is truly compelling, and we believe it will have a profound impact on audiences nationwide.”
The series follows Stephanie Gardner as she travels to diverse locations across the world, engaging with local filmmakers and exploring the unique cultural landscapes that inspire their work. Viewers will gain insight into the creative process, the challenges faced by independent artists, and the power of cinema to bridge cultural divides.
“Cinema is a powerful tool that transcends borders and overcomes barriers to connect across cultures. This is why I am compelled to make films and even more so why I am drawn to traveling around the world: to connect with other individuals who are doing like-minded things in various countries,” said Stephanie. “Through ‘Cinema Nomad,’ I intend to share the stories and experiences of these 33-year-old filmmakers to present a kaleidoscope of visions which show that we are all connected, we are all human, and that communicating with others and experiencing their cultures is a positive way to learn and understand how we fit into the world at large.”
The first season will premiere on public television stations in May 2025. Viewers can expect to embark on a captivating journey that celebrates the power of storytelling and the richness of global cultures.
About ion Philanthropy:
ion Philanthropy is a dynamic fundraising consulting firm founded on the principle of disrupting the status quo and driving transformative impact across the nonprofit sector. We believe in moving beyond traditional fundraising methods to forge meaningful connections between organizations and their audiences, ultimately fueling sustainable growth and mission fulfillment.
About Cinema Nomad:
“Cinema Nomad” is an episodic arts-and-culture focused international travel docu-series born out of The 33 and Me Film Project, produced by Steadmans Go Global Productions. On her 33rd birthday, American filmmaker, Stephanie Gardner, set out to travel to over 33 countries around the world to meet and get to know other 33-year-old-ish film directors, to learn about their lives, careers, and cultures. “33 and Me” is a cross-cultural endeavor, to learn about the world, to connect together a network of global filmmakers, and to discover what types of stories this generation of filmmakers are compelled to make into movies.
