The Giving Tree
2024, Documentary
Release Year: 2024
Country: United States
Producer: Rachel Fogarty
Director: Dominique Salalila
Cinematographer: Yasmine Tohme
Editor: Melissa Herzberg
In the heart of the Guatemalan jungle lies Uaxactun, a town whose story is deeply intertwined with the ancient tradition of gum harvesting. The chicleros, skilled workers who harvest gum from the surrounding rainforests, have played a vital role in sustaining the town’s economy and cultural heritage. While their global economic and cultural contributions have been historically overlooked, chicleros are still working hard to preserve their traditions despite the challenges of a rapidly changing world. In Uaxactun, gum is more than just a resource; it’s where it all began.
For more information on the town of Uaxactun go to visituaxactun.com
GALLERY
About the director
I am a Business Analyst, third culture kid, and avid traveler currently based in Toronto, Canada. I am also the content creator behind The Thrill of Pursuit, a travel blog for those adventurous souls who have a 9-5. Through my curated travel tips and photo journals, I hope to make travel more accessible, sustainable, and enjoyable. I travel to seek what makes each destination exotic while also looking for the familiarities that connect us all as humans. As part of that quest, I share my insights from the road on The Thrill of Pursuit to foster a travel community that is self aware and to provoke thought on our impact on local economies as travelers. The Thrill of Pursuit specializes in detailed travel guides to some of the most unbelievable, off-the-beaten track destinations.
