Sara Hirsh Bordo is an acclaimed filmmaker and producer, dedicated to creating impactful media that empowers women and girls. Her career spans significant roles in marketing and the founding of her own production company, reflecting her commitment to social change through storytelling.

Background in Marketing

Bordo’s career began with influential roles in interactive and digital marketing. At Paramount Pictures, she served as the Executive Director of Interactive Marketing, where she crafted engaging campaigns for major film releases. She then moved to MGM Studios as the VP of Digital Marketing, further solidifying her expertise in the media landscape. These roles provided her with a deep understanding of how to leverage storytelling to engage and inspire audiences.

Founding Women Rising

In 2012, Bordo co-founded NowLive, a company that produced live events for entertainment brands. This entrepreneurial venture set the stage for her next major project, Women Rising. Founded with the mission to empower women and girls, Women Rising is a production company and content studio that creates media highlighting women’s experiences. The company’s projects range from TEDx talks and women’s marches to documentary films that address critical social issues.

 Notable Projects

A Brave Heart: The Lizzie Velasquez Story:
Bordo’s directorial debut, *A Brave Heart: The Lizzie Velasquez Story*, premiered at SXSW, winning the audience award. The documentary chronicles Lizzie Velasquez’s transformation from a bullying victim to a global anti-bullying advocate. Its success, including global distribution and qualification for an Academy Award, marked a significant milestone in Bordo’s career.

Other Key Projects:
– *We Go Higher: A Documentary Series of Hope*: Features messages from 9/11 survivors and others affected by mass tragedies, aiming to foster resilience and hope.
– *Tightly Wound*: An animated film about a woman’s experience living with chronic pelvic pain.
– *ProtectHer*: A documentary focused on a sexual assault prevention program that engages young male athletes in redefining masculinity.

Impact and Advocacy

Bordo’s work extends beyond filmmaking to direct action and advocacy. She directed the Women’s March of Texas rally in 2017, which became the largest gathering of women in Texas history. She also documented the United State of Women Summit in 2018, showcasing her role as a key figure in the movement for gender equality.

Personal Influence

Bordo’s personal experiences have profoundly influenced her work. After moving to Los Angeles post-divorce, she survived a sexual assault, an ordeal that deepened her empathy and commitment to telling authentic stories of resilience and strength. Her ability to connect with diverse communities and portray their stories with sensitivity and respect is a testament to her resilience and dedication.

Professional Recognition

Bordo’s contributions to the media industry have not gone unnoticed. She has been nominated twice for Fortune’s Most Powerful Women Entrepreneur and featured in numerous prominent publications, including Inc., Entrepreneur, Forbes, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, IndieWire, People, The Mighty, The Washington Post, and The New York Times.

Future Directions

Looking ahead, Bordo remains focused on her mission to empower women and girls through media. Her company, Women Rising, continues to produce content that challenges societal norms, fosters community, and inspires action. Bordo’s dedication to creating impactful media that educates and empowers ensures that she will continue to be a leading figure in documentary filmmaking and women’s advocacy.

Conclusion

Sara Hirsh Bordo’s career is a powerful example of how storytelling can be a catalyst for change. Through her films and projects, she has consistently highlighted the resilience and strength of women and girls, making a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Her work not only entertains but also educates and empowers, contributing significantly to the movement for gender equality and social justice. Bordo’s unwavering commitment to her craft and her cause ensures that her influence will continue to grow, inspiring future generations to embrace the power of their stories.