Hadithi Voices is a community storytelling and documentary project that centers the voices, experiences, and contributions of New Americans in Grand Rapids.

 

“Hadithi” means story, and this project is rooted in the belief that stories shape how we see one another, how we understand our communities, and how we imagine the future.

 

Through a series of short documentary films, Hadithi Voices highlights individuals who are actively building, leading, and contributing to life in our city. These are not just stories of where people come from, but of what they are creating here through their work, their relationships, and their impact on others.

 

At the heart of the project is a cohort of emerging creatives who are trained and mentored in storytelling, filmmaking, and media production. Participants work alongside professionals to develop, film, and produce these stories, gaining hands-on experience while helping bring them to life.

 

Beyond the films, Hadithi Voices is also about community engagement. Through story circles, collaborative art, and public events, the project invites people to reflect, share, and connect across cultures and experiences.

 

The result is more than a film. It is a growing archive of stories that reflect the depth, diversity, and potential of our community.