At a moment when systems often respond to families in crisis rather than preventing it, Doris Duke Foundation leads a conversation grounded in its OPT-In for Families initiative, which works to strengthen support for children and caregivers before challenges reach a breaking point. Inspired by themes explored in Tribeca selections Take Me Home and The Accompanist, the discussion will examine how storytelling can illuminate the invisible pressures families face, from caregiving and child welfare to aging, belonging, and chosen family.
Bringing together filmmakers, culture-change leaders, and creative collaborators, the panel will explore how stories shape public understanding of care, resilience, and connection. Through conversations about both the narratives on screen and the worlds built around them, we’ll examine how film can challenge assumptions, deepen empathy, and help reimagine the systems and support structures that allow families and communities to thrive.
Speakers:
- Jodi Hill-Lilly, Program Director for Child Well-being, Doris Duke Foundation
- Lydia Storie, Executive Producer “Take Me Home”, Head of Content, Give Not Take Media
- Liz Sargent, Director, TAKE ME HOME (Tribeca Film Festival Official Selection)
- Stephonik, Production Designer, THE ACCOMPANIST (Tribeca Film Festival Official Selection)
- Candice McFarlane, Cinereach