My name is Lazarus Simbahon, and I am the founder of Mana Motion Pictures.

The first storytellers in my life weren’t filmmakers—they were my grandparents. Armed with a camera and what felt like an endless supply of film, they documented every birthday, holiday, family gathering, and ordinary moment they never wanted to lose. I was the most photographed kid in the family because, in many ways, I was their world. Raised by grandparents who loved me unconditionally, I grew up in front of a camera that was really an expression of their love. At the time, I thought they were just taking pictures. Looking back, I realize they were preserving memories and teaching me that every person, every family, and every moment has a story worth remembering.

That lesson shaped the way I see people today. Through Mana Motion Pictures, my passion is helping others tell stories that matter to them. Whether I’m working with a family, a business, or a creative team, I believe the most important part of any project is the relationship behind it. I want people to feel seen, heard, and valued—not just as clients, but as people. Stories have the power to connect us, and I consider it a privilege when someone trusts me to help tell theirs.

My goal is to build Mana Motion Pictures into a company known not only for great storytelling, but for meaningful relationships. If I can create something that helps a person feel remembered, understood, or inspired, then I’ve accomplished what my grandparents taught me all those years ago: the moments that matter most are the ones we take the time to preserve.