Hello All,

As the ‘gang’ issue steadily inclines, more and more communities around BC and across Canada are looking for ways to spread awareness.

A couple of months ago, I was kindly approached by a criminology professor to the possibility of bringing myself and my film to their University.

After many emails and phone calls, we were able to schedule a firm date to showcase my film and proceed with a Q&A session.  Vancouver Island University were spectacular hosts and the criminology department went above and beyond to organize these events.

The film was showcased at the Parksville VIU campus on November 4th.  The screening on November 5th took place at the Nanaimo campus along with the Q&A session with myself.  The criminology students came prepared to ask questions and I hope I was able to answer them sufficiently.  It is in our youth we must place our greatest amount of support.  Without their intuitive and progressive thinking, issues such as gangs will surely not be resolved for future generations.

I want to send shout outs to VIU Department of Criminology, VIU Human Rights Office, VIU Criminology Student Association, and Worldbridger Film Series.

Worldbridger is a great organization that brings provocative films to many communities.  Please show them support so they may continue to help spread valuable messages.

Finally I wanted to send a special shout out to a new friend, Professor Joanne Simister, Chair, Department of Criminology, Vancouver Island University.  Professor Simister’s drive to educate youth and propel them to think outside the ‘box’ is very apparent.  It is not often you find someone whose impressive acumen takes a back seat to humility and kindness.  Professor Simister is as lovely and kind as she is intelligent and wise.  I am blessed to have made this new friend whose views are very much aligned.

Thank you everyone,

mani