Short Film - Organic Trinitario Cocoa

What is this about?

Cocoa farming in Trinidad and Tobago is going through some tough times. From environmental challenges like climate change, pollution, and unpredictable weather to social issues, the future of cocoa cultivation is uncertain. Farming is no longer appealing to many younger people, and the older generation is slowly walking away, leaving estates behind. But what if there’s another way? What if there are already farming communities showing us a different path—one that proves how fulfilling it can be to reconnect with the earth?

This short documentary is meant to spark that kind of inspiration. It’s about showcasing solutions that benefit not just farmers, but the land and the communities they’re a part of—economically, socially, and environmentally. Some of these solutions are simple, rooted in the ancestral wisdom that’s been passed down for generations. Others require a shift in thinking, helping us understand how our actions impact cocoa and the larger ecosystem around it.

With an amazing crew, we traveled across the island, capturing footage on a 16mm analog camera. We hiked up steep hills, fought off swarms of mosquitoes and rain flies, and embraced the uncertainty of the rainy season—all to bring this story to life. And now, after all that hard work, we’re excited to share the finished documentary with the world!

Your support will help cover the costs of submitting the film to festivals and getting this message to a wider audience. Let’s come together to create a movement for regenerative agriculture and honor the cultural and biodiversity wealth that is right in front of us.

The Film Crew

Director: Denise Speck (@bydenisespeck)

Producer: Denise Speck (@bydenisespeck)

Co-director and cinematographer: Oliver Milne (@olliethemilne)

Camera assistant & gaffer: Dylan Quesnel (@dylan_q)

Location and sound recordist: Jelanie Serrette (@jelaniserrette)

Post sound supervisor: Evan de Vitto (@evandevitto)

Trailer sound mixer: Jelanie Serrette (@jelaniserrette)

Editor and colorist: Oliver Milne (@olliethemilne)

Poster artwork and title design: Charlotte Tom (@charlotte_tom)

What We Need

We believe that together, we are stronger. That’s why we’re asking for your support in bringing our passion project about Trinitario Cocoa to life. We've already come far, and your contribution will help us cover the costs of submitting our documentary to festivals, where it can reach a wider audience and inspire change. Let’s work together to spark a movement for regenerative agriculture and celebrate the cultural and biodiversity richness that surrounds us.

What You Get

To support the production of our short film we will share our eternal gratitude and love with you. But we ain't stop here - we want you to experience the journey of Trinitario Cocoa, from tree to bar. We want you to be part of this movement to foster regenerative agriculture in the cocoa space.

Let's together create a positive impact on cocoa farmers, young people, chocolatiers, consumers, the soil, and our mother earth.

Other Ways You Can Help

No matter how much you can give, we appreciate every single effort and cent to realize this short film. But hey, no contribution doesn’t mean you cannot help… please get the word out and make some noise about our campaign, share the campaign with your friends, share it with your family, and share it with your network.

Thank you so, so much!

Love, light, and gratitude to you,

Your Film Crew