Dechen Kelden is fundraising
Support Tibetan American Immigrant Stories in Film
The Story of My Sweet Pala
In a world where the narratives of immigrants are increasingly essential for understanding and connecting with diverse people, My Sweet Pala emerges as a profoundly relevant and emotionally charged short film. Written and directed by Tao Okamoto, this film explores the intimate dynamics between a Tibetan father and daughter as they navigate the complexities of immigration, assimilation, and cultural identity.
A Timely Contribution to World Cinema
My Sweet Pala is more than a film; it is a contribution to contemporary cinema, embodying the growing demand for authentic and diverse storytelling. As global conversations about representation evolve, this film offers a rare and essential perspective, reflecting a broader cultural moment where underrepresented stories are gaining visibility, impact, and resonance.
Building on the momentum of acclaimed films like Pema Tseden’s award-winning Snow Leopard, Shambhala (Nepal’s Oscar submission), and Mountain Queen (Netflix), along with Tenzing (Apple), My Sweet Pala offers a deeply personal narrative that examines the delicate balance of preserving one’s heritage while embracing a new life. It presents the immigrant experience through a unique and compelling lens, contributing to the rich tapestry of Himalayan narratives in global cinema.
Challenging Stereotypes
Tao Okamoto’s dedication to authentic representation is driven by her personal experiences with stereotypes and mistreatment, including the profound impact of the 2021 Atlanta attack on Asian women in massage parlors. Her mission is to challenge harmful stereotypes by bringing genuine Asian stories to light, particularly those of Tibetan immigrants.
Meet Our Team
Our film is brought to life by an exceptional team of professionals whose extensive experience and impressive credentials enhance its authenticity and depth.
- Tao Okamoto, the producer, writer, and director, is renowned for her roles in The Wolverine and Westworld. Her directorial debut, Sun & Moon, premiered at the Tokyo International Film Festival and won the Best Foreign Film award at the Maryland International Film Festival. Her second short, EXHIBIT, was recognized as a finalist at several esteemed festivals.
- Pawo Choyning Dorji, the Executive Producer, is a Bhutanese film director and photographer known for his groundbreaking work in Bhutanese cinema. His debut film, Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom, was nominated for Best International Feature Film at the 94th Academy Awards, and his second film, Monk and the Gun, made the shortlist at the 96th Academy Awards. He is the youngest recipient of Bhutan’s highest civilian honor, the Druk Thuksey, and is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
- Dechen Kelden, the producer, is a cultural consultant at Avatar Studios for Nickelodeon and has a background in producing and leading programs in the Tibetan and Mongolian communities. Her work with organizations like the Tibet Fund, the Office of Tibet, and Art for Tibet highlights her commitment to cultural preservation and representation.
- Tenzin Wild, also a producer, co-founded Wild Neko Pictures with Okamoto and has a notable background in creative and production projects with luxury brands.
- Yuya Kudo, the cinematographer, has assisted on projects with top artists like Selena Gomez and Billie Eilish and received critical acclaim for his work on Okamoto’s Sun & Moon.
- Danny Long Casting, known for their work on Tenzing, Moana, and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, consulted on casting for this project.
- Tsering Dolma, the line producer, production manager at Complex Networks, brings extensive experience across music festivals, news, and branded content.
- Tenzin Shamphel, the costume designer, has over fifteen years of experience in fashion, playing a key role in creating Dr. Jill Biden’s inauguration outfit.
- Tenzin Norbu, the set designer, brings a diverse background with experience in modeling, acting, creative direction, and production.
- Tenzin Palkyi, the hair and makeup artist, has worked with prominent clients like Google and Hudson’s Bay.
Help Us Bring My Sweet Pala to Life
We are raising $56,000 to bring this vision to life. We are excited to share that we have already secured a $5,000 commitment from The Tibet Fund, which is acting as our fiscal sponsor. This means that all donations made through our GoFundMe page are tax-deductible, as The Tibet Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Where Your Donations Go
Your contribution will help us cover essential production costs, including:
- Production: Costs for our cast, crew, location, transport, catering, equipment rentals, and accommodations.
- Post-Production: Editing, sound design, color correction, and other key roles to finalize the film.
- Festival Submissions: Creating promotional and marketing materials and submitting to festivals globally.
Your Support Matters
Every donation brings us closer to amplifying Tibetan voices and sharing this crucial story with the world. Your support is instrumental in completing My Sweet Pala and ensuring its impact reaches a global audience, creating greater awareness and understanding of immigrant experiences.
Gifts for donors
- $5 - $250 USD Thank You Acknowledgement. Personalized thank you acknowledgment on our social media and GoFundMe page.
- $250- $500 USD Digital movie poster signed by the director and key cast members and thank you acknowledgment.
- $1000+ USD Virtual meet and greet with the film’s director and key cast members and previous rewards.
Join us on this journey, and together, we can bring My Sweet Pala to life.
With gratitude,
The My Sweet Pala Team
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