September 29, 2025
Walking With Those Who Came Before is a six part documentary series that follows the footsteps of Black artists, thinkers, and dreamers who left America in search of freedom and found themselves in the process.
Blending cinematic travel, ancestral storytelling, and honest reflection, the series explores what it means to leave home in order to reclaim your voice. It is a love story across generations, showing how creativity and courage have always guided the journey toward belonging, purpose, and peace.
“You belong where you are loved.” ~James Baldwin
Walking With Those Who Came Before is a six part documentary series that traces the journey of rediscovery through travel, ancestry, and connection. Each episode explores a different layer of that journey, from quiet towns carrying the weight of forgotten stories to living traditions that continue to shape who we are today.
This is not just another travel or love story. It is a living archive, a cinematic exploration of how history, creativity, and love intertwine to guide us forward. Through our own experiences abroad, we uncover the echoes of those who walked before us, and in doing so, begin to understand how their search for freedom and belonging still shapes our own.
What is happening in black America today is not new. It is a reflection of the past. The same tension, exhaustion, and search for freedom that people like James Baldwin, Nina Simone, Eartha Kitt, and so many others felt in their time still lives in us today. They left America to find their voice, to breathe, to be seen beyond the limitations placed on them. And in many ways, we are doing the same.
“Walking With Those Who Came Before” is about that journey, the modern echo of an old struggle. It is about finding belonging beyond borders and rediscovering the same courage our ancestors carried when they chose themselves. This project honors that lineage, tracing how creativity, love, and self discovery continue to lead us home, even when home is something we have to redefine for ourselves.
“I left this country because I didn’t feel free anymore. I couldn’t be the artist I wanted to be.” ~Nina Simone
Right now, you have the opportunity to be part of this story from the very beginning. Your support during the pre production phase helps bring the vision of Walking With Those Who Came Before to life and gives you a front row seat to its creation.
As a Founding Partner, you will receive exclusive access and recognition for your contribution to this independent film project.
Founding Partner perks include:
Private behind the scenes access with early updates, production notes, and sneak peeks from filming
Your name featured in the film credits as an official Founding Supporter
Invitation to an exclusive digital screening of the first preview episode
Your name featured permanently on the Founders Wall page of the project website
Your support helps preserve our stories, celebrate our history, and inspire the next generation of creators who are finding freedom through art and truth.
Every great story begins with a community that believes in it. Independent projects like Walking With Those Who Came Before grow through word of mouth, genuine connection, and the shared belief that our stories deserve to be seen and remembered.
Not everyone is ready to donate right away, and that is perfectly fine. You can still play a powerful role in helping this story reach the world. Your support, in any form, helps us build the foundation that allows this six part documentary series to come to life and reach audiences everywhere.
Here is how you can help right now:
Join the Journey by signing up for the newsletter to receive early updates, behind the scenes access, and exclusive content as the film develops
Share the Vision with friends, family, and communities who believe in freedom, ancestry, art, and love
Follow Our Story on social media and help spread the word so others can discover and support the project
Your voice matters. By staying connected, you become part of the movement that keeps this history alive and ensures our stories continue to be told.
A creative couple exploring the world and sharing stories about travel, mindfulness, and the art of living with purpose.
Currently exploring Bangkok Thailand. Want to hangout? Contact us at hello@zenandbaelife.com