Behind the Films - Journey Toward Zero

“ WE HAVE TO ADDRESS ALL THE

“ WE HAVE TO

ADDRESS ALL THE

UNDERLYING
ISSUES WITHIN
THIS EPIDEMIC.”

CHAN C. SMITH

DIRECTOR

MEET THE DIRECTOR

HIV and the Journey Toward Zero is directed by the Emmy Award -winning, Chan C. Smith, a native Chicagoan and Black queer female filmmaker.

Her work includes narrative filmmaking, documentary, editorial and branded content. Chan works with brands and studios including HBO, FX Networks, Amazon Studios, Paramount, Nike Chicago, the NBA, and the Biden/Harris campaign.

Chan is on a mission to tell stories centered around the human experience. She draws on her experience in journalism and creative storytelling to tell the stories of real people in a way that inspires, informs and invigorates.

EMMY AWARD-WINNING DIRECTOR

CHAN C. SMITH

TESSA FILMS

HIV and the Journey Toward Zero is produced by Tessa Films, a woman-owned production company that offers a diverse, talented set of directors with roots in the Midwest. Tessa’s roster of top-tier talent and ability to create original award-winning content have put obscure brands on the map and made well-known brands stand out (and break sales records).

CHICAGO DEPT. OF PUBLIC HEALTH

Chicagoans’ health needs are diverse, just like our communities. The Chicago Department of Public Health is dedicated to working continuously in partnership with community members to promote the best public health practices for the prevention, treatment and care of HIV. The department also promotes the highest-quality services for the health and wellbeing of individuals living in the city of Chicago.