Harrison Thane is an award winning cinematographer & director, for the last 10 years he has worked across Africa, The Middle East, Asia and South America providing social communications, short films and brand campaigns for clients in the third and private sectors.
I’m currently available for consulting engagements.
Following his consistent work on global social issues, Harrison's films were officially selected for two consecutive COP conferences, with 'Echoes of Tomorrow' notably opening the COP 28 event in 2023.
Kakuma My City
"Kakuma My City" explores the dynamic and often misunderstood relationship between refugees and the host community in Kakuma, Kenya. Contrary to prevailing government narratives which depict the camp as a burden on society, consuming scarce resources, this film presents a compelling counter-narrative. It highlights how Kakuma is not merely a place of refuge but can be an economic asset for the country. Through peaceful coexistence, the refugee camp has become largely self-sufficient, transforming into a bustling trading hub that benefits both the refugees and the local Turkana tribe. While kauma, is far from perfect, This documentary challenges the misconception of the camp as a societal bane and sheds light on its role as a beacon of mutual prosperity and resilience."
Storytelling, as we know, wields the power to transcend boundaries, and this film is no exception. Over a year in the making, it navigated the complex political landscape and bureaucratic hurdles that are all too common in Kakuma, Ngo's and the like......
Yet, the spirit of resilience and sheer determination of the refugees to voice their stories was nothing short of inspiring. This project was not just a film; it was a testament to the courage of those who, despite facing enormous odds, utilized their circumstances to challenge and reshape the global narrative about refugee communities.
This film is an homage to Kakuma and a celebration of the profound impact of storytelling. "Kakuma My City" found its way to the Hong Kong Refugee Film Festival (and won!), bringing not only the refugee stories but also our brilliant Director of Photography, Abdul, to an international audience. Facilitated by the festival, Abdul was issued a refugee passport—a significant gesture for someone from a stateless background. With this passport in hand, Abdul’s journey from Kakuma to Hong Kong symbolized a beacon of possibility for the community.
His presence at the festival, shared on social media, showed that no camp can confine hope. In refugee camps, despite daunting odds, individuals can reshape their destinies. Resilience, support, and a bit of luck can turn slim chances into real opportunities.
GOETHE - INSTITUT SUDAN X FASHION SCOUT ARE PROUD TO LAUNCH REVOUT ZINE, THE FIRST FASHION ZINE FROM SUDAN
REVout is here to celebrate the country’s young talents who are forging its fledgling fashion industry, fighting for women’s rights under the constant threat of repression and starting a revolution of their own.
https://fashionscout.com/revout-modazine-sudan
Harrison has an impeccable eye and he takes his visual storytelling to the next level, chasing light and framing for each of his interviews and scenes. He worked long hours to gather the best footage and content for this complex story, constantly adapting to the changing situation on the ground. He is easy to communicate with, provided detailed day-to-day summaries of his work, and cares about the stories he tells deeply. Would definitely work with him again.
Julia Muldavin - Executive Producer, Aljazeera
Harrison is a true professional and I cannot recommend him enough! Few people can tackle an assignment independently the way he did with our partners WCS: Getting beautiful shots, conducting interviews and working among other media teams with diplomacy and under less than ideal conditions. Thank you Harrison for being wonderful to work with and delivering the goods.
April Keller - Sr. Digital Media Producer at Vulcan Inc.
Certifications & Licences
Norwegian Council for Refugees
Hostile Environment Awareness Training (HEAT)
SEPAR International
Situational Awareness Training (SAT)
British Council
Working with vulnerable people (WWVP)
Harrison regularly consults for a variety of international NGO’s and media organisations. He is a frequent lecturer at humanitarian events and ongoing educational programs.
In 2019 Harrison completed an Artist Residency at the prestigious SWATCH Art Peace Hotel in Shanghai.
swatch-art-peace-hotel.com
“Harrison’s films have been key to UNHCR’s mission to create awareness of key refugee issues. His ability to represent these issues in a unique and engaging way is second to none. His approach encourages the direct involvement of the participants in the production of his films – from writing the script to direction and styling. This inclusiveness always results in a positive outcome not only by creating a film where the subject matter is transmitted in an accurate and organic way, but also by empowering those who contributed to the project.
I had the pleasure of joining Harrison on the discussion panel at the Hong Kong 2019 International World Refugee Week. His ability to discuss refugee issues so eloquently is particularly refreshing, as are the films he makes. I am very impressed with his limitless drive and passion to work with refugees to create platforms to change the paradigm that currently exists around displaced people. His work continually strives to and achieves a positive representation of refugees and is the antithesis of the stereotypical depiction that is so common. Harrison’s focus is to continue to spread messages of hope and understanding by delivering compelling and visually impactful media and for this we will continue to work with him.”
— Sivanka Dhanapala Senior Representative to the UNHCR
Current Location
Lamu, Kenya
