Connecting with people from all around the world is a gift and one that Pierre, a filmmaker and KORI participant, has treasured. Pierre’s passion for stories, including learning about others’ and sharing them in an engaging manner, has determined much of his work and experiences in life thus far. Pierre was first connected with KORI through KORI’s Vessel UK Programme, which was collaborating with his university on a project to send young people to work in Gambia. Pierre joined the trip to share skills about film production with young Gambians.
During this trip, he also created a short documentary focused on growing up in Gambia. Pierre describes himself becoming engaged in filmmaking after beginning with photography at the age of 15, having always wanted to be a storyteller. After joining KORI, Pierre was referred to an exchange program in Japan called ‘Ship for World Youth’. Youth from all continents are invited to voyage together across the Pacific, harbouring connections, facilitating cross-culture collaboration and together developing ideas to carry into the world. When asked about his key takeaway from the program Pierre noted the ability to form meaningful relationships with peers, unrestricted by their various cultures and languages; they connected over shared interests and a curiosity to learn about each other’s stories.
When asked about the ways in which he benefited from KORI aside from being connected with Ship for World Youth, Pierre shares that KORI aided him in finding his first job in London as a film editor, providing him with an industry mentor who taught him how to market his work, prepare for interviews and build a powerful CV. Pierre’s involvement with KORI also linked him to a wide network of people with whom he has formed lasting relationships.
