Mikki Willis, a visionary and innovative filmmaker, founded Elevate, a production company committed to creating socially conscious media that inspires and uplifts. As a director, he has been granted exclusive access to the minds and hearts of renowned philosophers, scientists, physicists, doctors, authors, shamans, and human development experts, allowing him to craft thought-provoking and visually stunning productions.
Throughout his illustrious career, Mikki has helmed numerous award-winning and record-setting productions, including theatrical features, network television specials, commercials, and music videos for platinum artists. His passion for uniting creatives led to the inception of the Elevate Film Festival in 2006, which rapidly gained international recognition as "the world's largest single screen film event," attracting up to 6,000 attendees per screening and showcasing at prestigious venues such as the Kodak Theater, Pasadena Civic, and Nokia L.A. Live.
Mikki's dedication to his craft has earned him numerous accolades, including the Conscious Life Humanitarian Award in 2011 and his appointment as a member of the Transformational Leadership Counsel. In 2013, he co-created a groundbreaking blended learning program for Harvard Westlake, which has since been integrated into the curriculum of over 3,500 high schools.
Mikki's most recent documentary, "Neurons to Nirvana: Understanding Psychedelic Medicines," was co-directed in 2014 and continues to spark important conversations about the potential benefits of psychedelic medicines. His latest feature-length documentary, "Be Brave," is currently in production and promises to be another thought-provoking exploration of the human experience.
In addition to his work in film, Mikki is also passionate about creating content for families. Alongside his wife, Nadia Salamanca, he is developing "Elevate Family," a new online platform designed to inspire and educate kids and parents alike. Mikki, Nadia, and their two sons, Azai and Zuriel, reside in Ojai, California, where they prioritize living life to the fullest and pursuing their shared passions for creativity, self-discovery, and personal growth.
