I am Maria Chavarria, a documentary filmmaker, photographer, and communications specialist with 10+ years of experience in audiovisual production, field communications, and content strategy for humanitarian and social justice organizations. I blend technical expertise with a calm, adaptable presence in the field, delivering clear, impact-driven storytelling that supports advocacy, visibility, and fundraising efforts. I lead end-to-end productions—from concept and scripting to filming, podcasting, and digital storytelling—often in fast-changing environments across Mexico and beyond. My work amplifies stories in crisis and migration contexts, creating narratives around social justice, personal biographies, and human experiences.

Maria Chavarria

I am Maria Chavarria, a documentary filmmaker, photographer, and communications specialist with 10+ years of experience in audiovisual production, field communications, and content strategy for humanitarian and social justice organizations. I blend technical expertise with a calm, adaptable presence in the field, delivering clear, impact-driven storytelling that supports advocacy, visibility, and fundraising efforts. I lead end-to-end productions—from concept and scripting to filming, podcasting, and digital storytelling—often in fast-changing environments across Mexico and beyond. My work amplifies stories in crisis and migration contexts, creating narratives around social justice, personal biographies, and human experiences.

Available to hire

I am Maria Chavarria, a documentary filmmaker, photographer, and communications specialist with 10+ years of experience in audiovisual production, field communications, and content strategy for humanitarian and social justice organizations. I blend technical expertise with a calm, adaptable presence in the field, delivering clear, impact-driven storytelling that supports advocacy, visibility, and fundraising efforts. I lead end-to-end productions—from concept and scripting to filming, podcasting, and digital storytelling—often in fast-changing environments across Mexico and beyond. My work amplifies stories in crisis and migration contexts, creating narratives around social justice, personal biographies, and human experiences.

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Language

English
Advanced
Spanish; Castilian
Fluent
French
Beginner

Work Experience

AV Producer
February 1, 2023 - Present
Script writing & Content Creation: Developed and wrote scripts for short-form content, ensuring clear and impactful messaging aligned with organizational goals.
Senior Producer at World Justice Project, Mexico - Washington DC
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2023
Investigative reporting: investigated and analyzed data to create short-form documentaries on the justice system in Mexico, including field visits to prisons, police departments, and government offices. Led a four-person editorial and creative workflow, mentored team members, and oversaw event documentation for major gatherings (e.g., World Justice Forum 2022). Captured and edited content for publications and events, including book covers and promotional materials. Authored a post-production guide to standardize practices and improve efficiency.
Senior Producer at KTBO Agency, Mexico
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2019
Directed and produced content for multiple campaigns, supervised post-production workflows, and ensured timely delivery of outputs across projects.
Photographer & Editor at Mexico City Police Corps, Mexico
January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2018
Operational reporting: captured and edited content from police operations and public events, demonstrating the ability to work in sensitive and dynamic environments.
Teacher/Trainer, Observer, English Teacher
January 1, 2012 - December 31, 2016
Led training sessions for teachers, focused on instructional techniques, classroom management, and pedagogical strategies; provided individualized support to students to maximize learning outcomes.

Education

Master’s Degree in Documentary Filmmaking at Universidad de la Comunicación, Mexico
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2020
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies at Universidad Ad del Valle de México
January 1, 2011 - January 1, 2015
Certificate in Documentary Filmmaking at Artegios, Mexico
January 1, 2017 - January 1, 2017
Certificate in Digital Photography at HD Labs, Mexico
January 1, 2020 - January 1, 2020

Qualifications

Master’s Degree in Documentary Filmmaking
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2020
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
January 1, 2011 - January 1, 2015
Certificate in Documentary Filmmaking
January 1, 2017 - April 9, 2026
Certificate in Digital Photography
January 1, 2020 - April 1, 2020
Master of Arts in Documentary Filmmaking
January 11, 2030 - April 30, 2026
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
January 11, 2030 - April 30, 2026

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization, Education, Professional Services, Government, Life Sciences, Telecommunications