MEET KETTIE JEAN
Meeting Kettie a couple of years ago was like coming home to someone I had never met before. She embodies warmth, heart and intellect in a very inspiring way. Kettie is one of those people that seems to effortlessly do things that are more complex for others. I’ve seen her turn out amazing pottery after ceramics class, a gallery ready piece of art after a playful art class session with friends, and tasted a variety of incredible meals coming from her home kitchen in Condesa. She is currently in progress with her documentary film project and just gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. I have witnessed her live life with a sense of ease, grace and humor. She has become one of my dearest friends and will instantly move you by the heart that she puts into everything she does. Here’s a few words with Kettie…
WHAT IS YOUR OCCUPATION?
I’m a filmmaker.
WHAT IS YOUR STRONG SUIT?
Telling stories that highlight the power of human connection and show how deeply we’re all intertwined.
WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I’m like an armadillo—tough and armored on the outside, but soft and vulnerable on the inside.
HOW HAS YOUR WORK EVOLVED SINCE YOU FIRST STARTED OUT?
When I started, I was focused on tackling big issues I wanted to solve. But my time as a humanitarian worker changed me deeply. It taught me that the emotions, experiences, and connections between people are far more powerful. Now, I tell stories that reflect that understanding and purpose.
WERE THERE ANY PARTICULAR MOMENTS THAT SHIFTED YOUR PERSPECTIVE/BELIEFS AND HOW DID THAT SHOW UP IN YOUR FILMMAKING?
Absolutely. I’ve always felt drawn to both service and creativity, but I didn’t realize they could go hand in hand. The turning point came when I understood that my passion and purpose were connected—I could serve others by telling meaningful stories. That realization changed everything, giving me the clarity to create work that touches hearts and helps people feel seen.
WHAT IS YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS LIKE?
When inspiration hits, I start with the big picture—what’s the overall idea? Then I dive deeper, breaking it down until I can tell the most human, intimate story within it.
WHAT DOES TRUTH MEAN TO YOU? HOW DOES THAT COME OUT IN YOUR WORK?
Truth is about being authentic and staying true to your values. It’s not just about facts but about honesty and vulnerability. In my work, that translates into telling stories that make people feel something real—stories that pull out raw, unfiltered emotions we sometimes try to hide.
WHAT IS YOUR VIEW ON THE ROLE OF FILMMAKING THESE DAYS?
Filmmaking has the power to shape how we see the world. Right now, there are so many divisive, fear-driven ideas out there that make us feel disconnected from each other. Filmmaking can push back against that. It can give us a glimpse into lives we’d never encounter otherwise, showing us that no matter where we come from, we all love, grieve, and hope in the same way. It’s a way to build bridges when we need them most.
Instagram: @kettiejean
Website: www.kettiejean.com