Meet the Filmmaker Replay
World Spine Care's Exclusive Chat with Filmmaker Jane Spitz Now Available
World Spine Care is thrilled to share that our recent pre-recorded live discussion is now available for replay. This engaging conversation features Jane Spitz, the director and filmmaker behind the World Spine Care short documentary film, Tshidilo. She is joined by the volunteers who play key roles in the story. This virtual gathering provides an insightful look into the creation of a film that weaves the real experiences of our clinic volunteers into a compelling narrative of community impact.
A Glimpse Into the Film
Nathan Cashion, director of communications for World Spine Care, introduces the film and expresses excitement about having a closer look behind the scenes in Botswana. Jane's ability to capture authentic and compelling stories revealed aspects of the work that can remain hidden even for those working closely with World Spine Care.
The Director's Journey
Jane Spitz shares her personal and professional journey, detailing her transition from commercial videography to documentary storytelling. Inspired by her own spinal health challenges, her backstory resonates deeply with the mission of World Spine Care. Her filmmaking has taken her across continents, from aboriginal communities in Australia to the Pacific islands of Vanuatu, and of course, the clinics in Botswana featured in the film.
Volunteering Experiences
Key volunteers, Mufudzi Chihambakwe and Michael Pretorius, offer heartfelt insights into their experiences working with World Spine Care despite the challenging settings common in strained healthcare systems. Their stories highlight the cultural integration and communal spirit they encountered while delivering care in Botswana. Mufudzi, in particular, reflects on the emotional significance of the friendships and connections forged on this journey.
Community and Impact
Mufudzi shares his unique perspective on the relationships between the clinic staff and the local community, as well as the cultural significance of the word "tshidilo," a Setswana word which represents healing through touch and care in multiple contexts. This reflects the comprehensive care approach embraced by our clinics in Botswana.
Expansion and Future Prospects
Michael Pretorius provides an update on the new clinic space in Mahalapye, sharing the improvements in efficiency and patient care. The new setup allows for better management of resources and enhanced service delivery, aligning with our mission to provide high-quality spine care in underserved regions.
Sharing the Journey
Nathan and Jane conclude by reflecting on their collaboration and the expansion of the film's reach through various channels, including film festivals and integrative health platforms, to share the impact of World Spine Care's work more broadly.
Join Us
This informative discussion is now available to watch on YouTube. If you’d like to participate in future discussions with volunteers and colleagues, join The Backbone, our growing community of monthly donors.
Thank you for your support in helping us bring spine care to those who need it most. Your contributions are vital in extending our global reach and improving lives around the world.
