Vanessa McNeal facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Vanessa McNeal
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A capture from McNeal's 2019 news interview on WHO TV
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| Born | August 3, 1993 Davenport, Iowa, United States
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| Education | Iowa State University, University of Northern Iowa |
| Occupation | Social activist, public speaker, documentary filmmaker |
Vanessa McNeal-Atadoga (born August 3, 1993) is an American social activist, public speaker, and documentary filmmaker. She creates films that help people share their personal stories. Her documentaries, like The Voiceless and We Are Survivors, focus on important social issues.
Vanessa is also a two-time speaker at Tedx events, where people share powerful ideas.
Learning and Education
Vanessa finished her studies at Iowa State University in 2015. She earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Child Adult and Family Services. Later, in 2017, she received a Master of Social Works (MSW) degree from the University of Northern Iowa.
Her Work and Career
Vanessa's journey in filmmaking, social activism, and speaking began with her first film. It was called I am: The Vanessa McNeal Story and was released in 2015. Since then, she has traveled to many places to share her message.
She has spoken at different college events and for groups like the US National Guard. Vanessa has also made three more important documentary films. These include We are Survivors, The Voiceless, and Gridshock.
Vanessa often visits college campuses, government groups, and community events across the U.S. She shares her experiences and shows her films. Her goal is to inspire positive change in society.
Vanessa has received several awards for her work. She won "best director" for her film “The Voiceless.” She also received the Women Filmmaker Award of Recognition. In 2017, she got the YWCA Young Woman of Tomorrow Award. The 2018 STATEment Maker award was also given to her. In 2019, she was honored with an award for her outstanding service in Iowa, helping people who have been exploited.
Her Films
- I am: The Vanessa McNeal Story (2015)
- We are Survivors (2016)
- The Voiceless (2017)
- Gridshock (2019)
