MICHAEL
SERPELL

I love helping people and organisations amplify the good they bring to their communities by sharing their stories. Through social impact storytelling, I am able to shine light in the darkness — spreading the positive work of changemakers in ways that transform perspectives, ignite hope, and unite communities. 

My passion for authentic stories has grown through years of independent filmmaking with diverse communities across Central America, South-East Asia, the United States, and Australia. In 2025, I served as the Program Supervisor for Actuality Abroad’s Documentary Outreach Program in Mexico, guiding a cohort of impact-driven filmmakers through every stage of production. Having first joined Actuality as a participant in Guatemala nine years earlier, returning as a teacher was a full-circle moment that combined my passion for nonprofit work, documentary filmmaking, and mentoring the next generation of storytellers.

As a media program leader, I founded and directed RMIT University’s award-winning Sports Media Program, recognised nationally in 2024. The program created hands-on opportunities in journalism, podcasting, photography, videography, and social media marketing, empowering students to become confident, industry-ready storytellers.

As a presenter, I’ve hosted podcasts and interviewed leaders across social work, sport, education, and cinema, which has also led to emceeing large-scale events, workshops and ceremonies. Across podcasting, teaching, filmmaking and consulting, my mission remains the same: to make storytelling accessible and impactful for nonprofits, grassroots changemakers, social enterprises, educational institutions, and individuals with an empowering message to share. 

Beyond the lens, my heart for social impact is shaped by volunteering, advocacy, and collaborations with purpose-led organisations. These experiences fuel my commitment to amplifying voices, fostering belonging, and strengthening communities through narrative.

Looking ahead, my goal is to build a global movement of positive stories — shining a light on people and organisations doing good work worldwide, and helping their messages resonate across borders and generations.