Cacao + Climate Change: Where Do We Go From Here? (Online Premiere)
A Short Film + Discussion
October 15th, 7pm EST
Location: Online via Zoom
$15 ticket only / $20 ticket + cacao bar
Join us for the virtual premiere of a compelling short film crafted by Daniela McDonald, who handled the production, filming, and editing, with co-production by Florencia Fridman. This film offers an in-depth exploration of the current state of our planet and the future of our cherished cacao. We traveled to the coast of Ecuador to speak directly with local farmers and gain firsthand insights into the pressing issues they face. As we reach a crucial moment in our relationship with the Earth, cacao remains a significant part of the conversation.
We will start the evening connecting with a cup of ceremonial Cacao, followed by the showing of the film “Cacao and Climate Change”, and finished with an interactive Q+A guided by Florencia Fridman and Daniela McDonald to touch upon some of the topics shared throughout the film.
Panelists
Florencia Fridman
Florencia Fridman is a self-empowerment artist working globally with heart opening therapies involving Ceremonial Grade Cacao, yoga, sound journeys, and breath as instruments for transformation. Florencia is passionate about supporting the voices of indigenous nations, wisdom keepers, and guardians of the sacred lands. She works with the Mayan tradition from Guatemala and the the Sapara Nation of Ecuador.
She shares her passion for Theobroma Cacao through education and ceremony globally. Florencia has opened for Deepak Chopra, has facilitated ceremonies for the corporate world at Spotify, and has been a guest to teach at NYU.
Florencia is the co-Founder of Cacao Laboratory, a Ceremonial Cacao brand aiming to bring awareness of a regenerative world through the voice of Cacao. She is also the founder of Florecer Community, bridging modern and ancient wisdom to create a more beautiful world our hearts know is possible.
Daniela McDonald
Daniela, a vibrant artistic force, is guided by her indigenous roots and a deep love for creation. A devoted mother and skilled artist, she seamlessly navigates the realms of motherhood and artistry, drawing inspiration from the spirit of Pachamama and the wisdom of Abuelita Moon. With her unique approach, Daniela harnesses the power of photography to redefine beauty and ignite the inner flame within her subjects.
Her work has garnered recognition and accolades, including exhibitions at colleges and museums across the tri-state area and a prestigious showcase at the White House in 2016. Inspired by the success of The Real Beauty: Uncovered Project, which earned numerous Healing Arts Awards, Daniela created the Unbranded Photoshoot—a captivating fusion of photography, Cacao Ceremony, and meditation. Her clients leave these transformative sessions feeling seen, comfortable in their skin, and often receive inspired messages from their guides.
For her first documentary film, Daniela chose to spotlight the critical challenges faced by our planet through the lens of cacao, a sacred plant integral to the broader conversation about sustainability. This project reflects her commitment to raising awareness, promoting environmental stewardship, and honoring the wisdom of indigenous communities who have long understood the interconnected web of existence. Through her debut documentary film and other artistic pursuits, Daniela seeks to amplify the voices of those on the frontlines of climate change while encouraging viewers to take action and embrace their role as stewards of our precious planet.
