Hello,
nice to meet you

Ciao!
Hola!

The I Mean Live Foundation is a nonprofit organization working to build a more empathetic society through the power of storytelling.

From a simple message left behind
in the wake of a tragedy:

we found
our rallying cry

A note that says "I mean... Live!"

A note from our founder

Chris DiFiore

Chris DiFiore

Founder of the IML Foundation
After my cousin tragically passed, we found this note in his handwriting that read “I mean... Live!” It has served as a personal reminder to live my life to the fullest ever since.

Through the I Mean Live foundation, I want to encourage others to live fully and authentically as themselves. Studies have shown that seeing ourselves represented in media and pop culture makes a tremendous impact on the mental health of minority populations. 

I believe that stories have power, and I’m excited for the opportunity to find new ways to bring untold stories to life. 

We noticed a gap in the industry

LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC creators face countless hurdles to get their stories produced, no matter the medium. When these stories do finally get told, they’re often diluted out of fear, losing the heart and integrity that made the story so imperative to tell in the first place. We plan to change that…

We believe the more authentic a story, the more an audience will connect with it. By controlling and protecting the creative process, IML will ensure the artist’s vision is at the forefront of every project from beginning to end.

With your help and IML’s mandate, we can play by a new set of rules to tell important stories that connect with audiences worldwide.

how we get the job done

Our programs
The I Mean Live Foundation offers vital support at every stage of the creative process
Authentic Development Pipeline
IML provides dynamic support to projects and their creators through our guided pipeline of development, production and distribution. We position each project for maximum impact while staying true to the artist’s unique vision.
Enlightening Workshops
IML offers a suite of in-person and digital workshops and courses designed to offer access to industry insights and knowledge for creatives everywhere.
  • Beginner-friendly workshops
  • Keynote conversations 
  • Online courses and programs
Empowering PSAs (Public Service Animations)
The I Mean Live Foundation is producing a collection of short films and empowering content driven by our mission to foster empathy and understanding in the world.

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