This pre-recorded panel discussion features Fraser Jones (Director) and Ben Eaton (President, The Black Belt Citizens) and is moderated by Greg McGruder (Vice President for Live Events, National Geographic Society).

Fraser Jones is a filmmaker hailing from Atlanta. After receiving his B.F.A. in Film & Television from NYU, Fraser soon moved to Australia to write a children’s television series for Nickelodeon before continuing to travel the world directing projects for Capitol Records, Red Bull, and various nonprofit organizations, along with his debut feature film Your Ride Is Here. Whether creating environmental documentaries or improvised comedic narratives, Fraser uses his strong interest and background in poetry, analog photography, and clowning to craft honest, personal pieces, which aim to deliver light to audiences while still maintaining a strong sense of realism and empathy.

Benjamin Eaton is President of Uniontown's The Black Belt Citizens Fighting for Health and Justice.

Gregory McGruder serves as the Curator of Global Events at the National Geographic Society, overseeing its lectures, film screenings, panel discussions, and other public events. Gregory began his career at National Geographic in 1987, and has served on various grant-making committees. He is currently a member of the committee that selects and mentors Fulbright-National Geographic Fellows. Additionally, he frequently takes part in the Society’s Science telling Boot camps in which he trains and coaches grantees on public speaking. For four years, he has served on the jury of the D.C. International Film Festival Circle Award. He also serves on the jury for the Barbados Independent Film Festival, and is a member of the board of the D.C. Environmental Film Festival. Additionally, he serves as vice president of the board of the D.C. Arts and Humanities Education Collaborative.