Ian MacKenzie is a filmmaker and cultural storyteller who has dedicated over 10 years to tracking and amplifying the global emergence of new paradigm culture, seeking out visionaries, artists, and activists working toward planetary system change from Burning Man’s desert to the heart of Occupy Wall Street. His mission centers on “storytelling for a regenerative future,” creating films that explore cultural emergence, regenerative living, activism, and paradigm shift while uncovering narratives that point toward a more beautiful, connected, and ecologically sustainable world. MacKenzie’s notable filmography includes “Sacred Economics” (2012), a widely-shared short film based on Charles Eisenstein’s book about transitioning from capitalism to gift economies; “Occupy Love” (2012), a feature documentary co-produced with Velcrow Ripper and crowdfunded over $80,000; “Dear Guardians” (2014), winner of Best Documentary at the Media Film Festival; “Amplify Her” (2017/2019), following emerging female voices in electronic music; and “The Village of Lovers,” exploring Portugal’s Tamera Peace Research Center and alternative approaches to community and activism. Beyond filmmaking, MacKenzie serves as a creative mentor and storytelling consultant, having advised over 40 crowdfunding campaigns that collectively raised more than $1 million, while his work has appeared in The New York Times, National Geographic TV, CBC Documentary, and film festivals worldwide.
Why their voice matters: MacKenzie demonstrates how conscious storytelling can amplify emerging cultural movements and paradigm shifts, showing that filmmakers and media creators have crucial roles in making alternative ways of living visible and inspiring, while connecting isolated innovators into broader movements for regenerative change.
