Meet the Team

Matthew Schweitzer

A third-generation Maui local, Matty brings a wealth of experience as a filmmaker, cinematographer, and co-director to our documentary team. Beyond his technical skills, Matthew is a community leader and activist, pivotal in catalyzing grassroots disaster relief efforts in Lāhianā. His strong media presence, including features on FOX, NBC, HBO Sports, among many more, has amplified the urgency of the situation in Lāhainā and garnered crucial support. In our documentary, Matty’s perspective and dedication offers viewers powerful insight into the resilience of the community and the importance of collective action in times of crisis.

Blake Ramelb

A vital member of our filmmaking team and multi-generational Lāhainā descendant, Blake has transitioned from commercial camera work to grassroots journalism and activism following the devastating fires in Lāhainā, Hawaiʻi. Through his social media platform, Blake has become a beacon of reliable information amidst the confusion of mainstream media, providing a steady stream of relevant updates to his community. His tireless efforts have not only empowered community members to take direct action in addressing the tragedy of the Lāhainā fires but have also elevated our team’s storytelling by amplifying voices and perspectives that might otherwise go unheard. Blake’s dedication and passion for his work make him an invaluable asset to both our team and to the community we serve.

De Andre Makakoa

As a resilient advocate and community leader whose family has been in Lāhainā, Hawai’i for over 15 generations, De Andre brings invaluable insight and passion to our filmmaking team. Having tragically lost his home to the fire on August 8th, De Andre’s role as a prominent figure in the Lāhainā Strong movement underscores his unwavering commitment to his community. His grassroots journalism, which sheds light on the pressing social and environmental challenges faced by Lāhainā, has not only sparked local change but has also resonated on the geopolitical front. De Andre’s profound dedication and storytelling prowess enrich our team, ensuring our films capture the depth and urgency of the issues we confront.

Phil Schlieder

Phil is an Oahu-based Hawaiʻi producer and filmmaker with over a decade of experience in the film industry, specializing in both documentary and narrative films. His extensive portfolio includes domestic and international projects, many of which have enjoyed successful runs at prestigious film festivals. Phil’s work has been featured on prominent platforms such as National Geographic, Outside Television, Amazon Prime, HBO, Hulu, Hawaiian Airlines, and in Surfer Magazine. Throughout his career, Phil has maintained a strong focus on themes of ocean conservation, community development, and the celebration of cultural diversity. His commitment to these causes is reflected in the impactful stories he tells, striving to inspire and educate audiences worldwide through the power of film.

Keely Badger
IMPACT PRODUCER

Keely Badger was raised in Sedona, Arizona around a confluence of Indigenous cultures in the American Southwest, developing a love for the transformative power of documentary film to bridge communities and awaken critical consciousness. With two decades of experience in producing, branding, and marketing films advocating for social and environmental justice, she specializes in creating strategic audience engagement, multimedia campaigns, and community partnerships. Keely’s award-winning work has premiered at top festivals like Sundance, Tribeca, and Rotterdam, and secured distribution with Netflix, Hulu, PBS, and more. Her films have reached diverse audiences globally, from the White House to the United Nations, to tribal communities across Australia and the Americas.

Amber Bobin
IMPACT PRODUCER

Amber Bobin is a Public Relations and Global Advocacy strategist based on Maui with over two decades of experience supporting initiatives at the intersection of justice, human rights, and social impact campaigns. Drawing on her background in talent management and branding, she has helped advance initiatives and films on dyslexia, foster care, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and younger-onset dementia, including contributing to the successful return of Paul Rusesabagina after 939 days of wrongful detainment. As a founding member of the Bring Our Families Home movement, she supported high-impact advocacy that mobilized families and the public to influence the White House and secure the release of detained Americans. Her work has been recognized by leading media, global institutions, and social movements, connecting her to a broad network of organizations and allies working to amplify voices for positive change.