WIDE-REACHING RESOURCES
WITH ITS WEB-BASED DESIGN , MY HERO IS ABLE TO IMPACT YOUTH AROUND THE GLOBE THROUGH ITS VARIED PROGRAMMING .
Clockwise from left : My Hero International Film Festival participants ; media arts sessions with a My Hero educator ; musicians at a jazz and poetry salon
CINEMATIC CHANGEMAKERS The My Hero International Film Festival , which celebrates its 19th year this November , showcases a diverse range of short films , documentaries and animations that highlight heroic acts and values that shape our world . Winning films address issues such as climate change , sustainability , poverty and inequality , isolation in old age and more while honoring the heroes who are working hard to address these global challenges . “ From unsung heroes making a difference in their communities to larger-than-life figures , the festival brings forth tales of courage , resilience and selflessness ,” says Jeanne Meyers , co-founder and director of My Hero . “ It serves as a platform for student and professional filmmakers … [ as well as ] audiences to explore the power of storytelling and its ability to ignite positive change .”
TARGETED TEACHINGS Teachers from around the world can register to participate in My Hero programs with their students and receive free mentorship and training from the organization ’ s educators . “ At a time when the onesize-fits-all approach to education is being challenged by the data , our resources help teachers engage students with diverse learning styles ,” Meyers notes . “ Students can work on their projects individually or collaboratively . They can also choose their storytelling media , all with the support of My Hero resources and tutorials .” The project ’ s media library promotes cross-cultural understanding and diversity . These educational resources help bridge the gap between home and school while addressing each child ’ s own culture , knowledge and interests .
SENSATIONAL SALONS To honor activists and champions for good around the world , My Hero hosts special salons that highlight the work of artists , writers , poets , filmmakers and musicians . “ My Hero has produced several salons over the years at the Herb Alpert Educational Village in Santa Monica , bringing together poets , including Amanda Gorman and David Milch , as well as … [ talented ] musicians for a celebration of poetry and jazz ,” Meyers says . “ Since the start of COVID , My Hero has been the proud host of the Eva Haller Salon Series every Saturday from September to June , … virtually .” Haller is a 93-year-old activist , philanthropist and Holocaust survivor who brings together leaders in philanthropy , science , art and the environment for discussion . My Hero ’ s salons are archived on its website at myhero . com . g
LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE 29