The following individuals have had a significant impact on my life and have encouraged me on the direction I’m heading in their own unique ways.
Stephen Bashinelli, My Father
My parents are saints. My mom is an angel, and my dad was as well. My father has inspired me in more ways than I could ever list here. Stephen Bashinelli grew up in Brooklyn, earned his way through high school, college and law school- and eventually worked at a practice in Manhattan- where he worked for over 30 years. He left home early and came home late- always putting his family first. Unlike me, my father never complained once in his life. He was taken too young at the age of 55. He never got to see my first film, Bridge the Gap- but he played a remarkable role in the creation of the vision- as he was the one who sent me on my first journey through Tanzania. Thank You Dad.
People I Like A Lot
Pete O’Neal, Former Black Panther- Head of the UAACC
The first time I left the United States was in 2007- and I traveled to Tanzania. I had no idea that the man I’d be living with was the former head of the Black Panther Party in Kansas City, Missouri in the 1960’s. Pete O’Neal was a pimp, a drug dealer, and a womanizer. But he was never happy. Pete is the one who shared with me that “In order to truly be happy, we must step outside of ourselves.” Pete and his wife Charlotte founded a non-profit children’s home and a community center that educates hundreds for free in rural Tanzania- and Pete is happier then ever. The vision for Bridge the Gap can be traced back to my conversation with Pete on a fateful night in 2007 in his home.
Bruce Lee, Author, Philosopher, Martial Artist
To many, Bruce Lee is the best fighter of all time. To me, Bruce Lee is a philosopher and one of the world’s leaders in self-actualization. His teachings on acceptance, awareness and the art of non-striving have had a sincere impact on my life. The analogy that sold me on Bruce was the “Reed in the wind”- while in a fierce storm, the mighty oak tree snaps and breaks, the reed which bends in the face of adversity- bounces back stronger than ever- and survives.
Anthony Bourdain, TV Host
No one has ever transcended the medium of television better than Anthony Bourdain. He has managed to completely evaporate the wall between viewer and subject. He is honest, himself, and offensive to many. He always says what’s on his mind, yet rarely disrespects. He is culturally sensitive and always approaches cultural exchange from a standpoint that shows respect to the people he is with. I hope I can connect with people in as honest a way as Anthony has.
