About Us
Media for Action is a nonprofit organization that develops, commissions and coordinates independent media that highlights social, cultural and environmental issues. Media cannot be truly independent while subject to the constraints of a commercial endeavor or corporate, political or religious bias. Media For Action is dedicated to telling the stories that reveal the truth behind the issues that face our societies, and provide a deeper insight into our global community. Once we are aware of the issues that affect our communities locally and globally, we are morally obligated to act. Learning about global issues is the first step to developing the skills you need to have a lasting impact. In the end, the extent of our impact on a specific global issue will depend on our capacity to create meaningful and sustainable change.
Media for Action has designed a framework of partnerships that will ensure these stories are heard. Our objective is to generate a philanthropic cycle of giving, emphasizing education, and supporting organizations that deal with issues of human and environmental importance. Our partnerships with charitable organizations that deal with the issues we cover not only gives us greater insight into the problems we face but offer an invaluable opportunity to maximize the impact and exposure of each project.These partnerships enhance our ability to both educate and generate revenues that ensure our ability to continue this work and support our partner organizations, maximizing the value of every dollar we receive. As a non-profit, we ensure that the profits from our films and media projects will directly support the issues we address.
Media for Action is managed by a Board of Directors that guide the creative direction of the organization and its projects. Our projects are original works created by a revolving cast of dedicated researchers, film makers and artists who all share a passion to effect positive change in the world around them.
The Media for Action Team
Founder/Executive Director : Isabella Michelle Marles has over fifteen years experience in nonprofit program management and funding. She has directed social programs and research projects for a variety of homeless and refugee programs and currently sits on the Board of Directors for several international charities including the American Red Cross. In addition to Isa’s nonprofit experience, she has produced/directed on several television documentaries and feature film programs.
Pete McGrain started Gypsy Film Company in 2005 specifically to develop media that examines social and environmental issues. Having developed programming for TV and the big screen, Pete’s films, including ‘How to Change the World the Movie’ have received widespread acclaim. His primary objective is to gather the finest production talent around the most compelling stories of our times and his passion, extensive creative talent and logistical experience will help guide our projects to fruition.
Steve Weltman has had an incredible career with The Beatles. Later he was at Charisma Records where he signed Julian Lennon. At RCA where Steve worked as International Manager and Head of Contemporary Marketing he achieved a first of its kind Gold Disk for Outstanding Management for his work with Elvis Presley! In 1986 he set up his own management company and negotiated and signed many recording contracts with every major label. Today Steve is CEO of Zest Inc a major music publishing house based in London UK. His experience speaks for itself, his commitment and dedication to the causes we serve cannot be measured.
Sal Cirnigliaro brings over 30 years of experience in nonprofit business management and event fundraising. Dedicated to the causes of homelessness, mental illness, and the special needs of children; Sal has raised over $5 Million for charity and devoted over 75,000 hours in service to community organizations. His managerial skills and years of experience bring a level head, savvy sense and moderating temper to our team. Also a director of the illustrious Kiwanis Charitable Foundation of Malibu Sal has an incredible network of colleagues whose experience and support we rely on.
