By Martha Hernandez, Communications Dept. Website & Online Services Coordinator
(Bellflower, California) – When young people are trusted with real responsibility, remarkable things happen. That truth came alive during a recent behind-the-scenes video production led by students of St. John Bosco High School’s Film and Media Pathway program, where collaboration, faith, and professional media skills came together in a powerful real-world experience.
This project was more than just filming an interview. It was about sharing good stories, uplifting an organization’s mission, and helping “get the word out” to inspire funding, volunteer support, and deeper community involvement. Through the collaboration between professional video producers and students in the Film and Media Pathway, the production became a meaningful act of storytelling with purpose.
Kai Maldonado, a senior in the Film and Media Pathway, reflected on interviewing Fr. Mel Trinidad, SDB, the Provincial for the Salesians of Don Bosco, USA West. What stood out most was not just the content of the interview, but the emotion and authenticity that filled the room. Fr. Mel spoke openly about his experiences, his faith, and his work serving less privileged communities. The conversation became deeply personal and, at moments, emotional, creating what students described as a powerful moment shared by everyone present.
For many students, this project represented a milestone. It was their chance to take the skills developed over four years in the Film and Media Pathway and apply them to a professional-level production that would be seen beyond the classroom. From interviewing and camera operation to producing and coordinating the shoot, every student played a vital role. Working alongside industry professionals gave them insight, mentorship, and practical knowledge they simply could not have gained elsewhere.
One especially meaningful moment happened off camera. While viewers may only see the final interview, the crew remembers gathering together in prayer behind the scenes. That shared moment of faith and unity brought an added sense of purpose and enthusiasm to the production, strengthening both the team and the final result.
This experience also allowed students to learn more about the lives of priests, brothers, and the communities they serve. Through storytelling, they gained a deeper understanding of faith in action and the importance of using media to amplify voices that inspire service, compassion, and hope.
Above all, this project highlights the impact of youth involvement when education meets opportunity St. John Bosco’s Film and Media Pathway program goes beyond teaching technical skills. It empowers students to collaborate, create, and contribute to stories that matter in the real world.
Video Credits
Interviewers from the St. John Bosco High School’s Film and Media Pathway program:
Dorian Franklin,
Kai Maldonado
Maddux Sorenson
Tanner Swager
Camera Operators from the St. John Bosco High School’s Film and Media Pathway program:
Raymar Chapman
Luciano Giammalvo
Alex Hernandez
Mario Nakajima
Greg Tapia
Leo DeLeon
Producers
Dani Snow, Director of Philanthropy – Salesians of Don Bosco USA West
Julie LaNasa, Producer
Melanie Grisanti, Producer
Jeremy Camp, Video Producer
Daniel Ceruti, Video Producer
Nolan Voge, Producer
Kennith Flaherty, Don Bosco Film and Media Pathway Coordinator
This collaboration stands as a testament to what’s possible when professional mentors and Film and Media Pathway students come together with a shared vision, strong values, and a desire to make a difference.
Watch the behind the scenes video below:
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