As the oldest daughter of a single parent household, Mackenzie has always been drawn to stories about overcoming adversity. Because life was often more difficult than it was easy, she sought solace in the one place that always offered her peace: school. By high school, Mackenzie quickly realized her life’s purpose: to fight injustice and adversity through exposure and education. 

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Mackenzie learned the value of being exposed to different perspectives through studying abroad in Europe and South America. Living abroad was an educational experience like no other and she sought to find a way to share these experiences with others: documentary film allows for exposure while also offering accessibility. Thus, she knew exactly what she had to do to pursue her life goal. 

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To reach this goal, Mackenzie has taken many steps to better her leadership and filmmaking skills, starting by attending Northern Arizona University on a full-ride scholarship. During her tenure in university, she graduated Summa Cum Laude, ranked within the top 5% of her class, and worked as Teacher’s Assistant for the Creative Media and Film department. She gained invaluable experience through UTV Studios (NAU’s IMDb accredited, student-run, production house) by working on award winning films as a Producer, Director, Writer, 1st Assistant Director, Production Coordinator, and Sound Crew Head. 

Mackenzie plans to continue volunteering in humanitarian aid while working on small freelance film projects and working in the industry until she gains enough experience to become a film professor at the university level.