Christel House release From Classrooms to Life
Moirai Films releases From Classrooms to Lifedocumentary 25 years in the making.
)
Moirai Films has premiered From Classrooms to Life, a 20-minute documentary that tells the global story of Christel House International, the non-profit that has broken the cycle of poverty for more than 20,000 children worldwide.
Directed by Emmy Award winner Paul Burger and shot by Emmy Award-winning cinematographer Michael Gomes, the film steps inside the homes, classrooms and lives of children in Mexico, South Africa, India, Jamaica and Colombia, capturing the human moments behind one of the world's most extraordinary education missions.
"Every country we filmed in, every home we walked into, every parent we met, it changed us," says Burger. "This film isn't just about what Christel House does for children. It's about what happens when you give people the belief that their future is worth fighting for."
The project carries personal weight for Moirai co-founder Andrew Porteous, whose mother, the Hon. Sally Porteous, co-founded Christel House Jamaica. That connection is what first drew Moirai to the story, and it shows in every frame.
Credits
View on-
- Production Company Moirai Films
- Director Paul Burger
-
-
Unlock full credits and more with a shots membership
Credits
View on- Production Company Moirai Films
- Director Paul Burger
- Producer Vanessa Lanci Porteous
- DP Michael Gomes
Explore full credits, grab hi-res stills and more on shots Vault
Credits
powered by- Production Company Moirai Films
- Director Paul Burger
- Producer Vanessa Lanci Porteous
- DP Michael Gomes
"We made this film because we believe storytelling has the power to move people to act," says producer Vanessa Lanci Porteous. "Christel House has been quietly transforming lives across the world for 25 years - it was time the world knew that story."
After a sold-out world premiere at the Electric Cinema at Soho House London, the film toured three cities globally, with screenings in Indianapolis and New York. A feature-length 90-minute version is now in development, with production set to begin August 2026.
The film closes with the words of Christel House founder Christel DeHaan (1942–2020): "They are breaking through the barriers of poverty to build a new and better life for themselves and a future for their families. They are our heroes and role models for others to follow."
