Documentary Produced by Josef Korbel School Alumna

Hellen Kassa (BA '12) is gearing up for the premiere of the documentary she produced thanks to support she received from the University of Denver and Peter Van Arsdale, senior lecturer at the Josef Korbel School of International Studies.

An Ethiopian native, Kassa noticed "a severe lack of positive media on Ethiopia and Africa." While an undergraduate student at the Josef Korbel School, Kassa was determined to change this.  Kassa explains, "with the help of Peter Van Arsdale I wrote a research proposal and was awarded a PINS research grant to travel to Ethiopia."

Now, "Sincerely Ethiopia," the documentary Kassa produced, is set to premiere this July.  The film focuses on highlighting positive and inspiring people who are working in different areas to make an impact in Ethiopia.

Kassa, who is currently based in Ghana where she is working for a microfinance program in the Central Region, credits DU and Van Arsdale with her participation in the film. "Honestly I would not have been able to go on that trip without the help of that grant and it was Peter Van Arsdale who encouraged me and worked with me to make that happen."