Documentary Film “Riza”

There are over 20 million informal waste workers (often called “waste pickers”) around the world who recycle over half of the world’s collected waste. In this intimate film we meet one of them: Riza, a mother of four in Manila, Philippines. Largely unnoticed or ignored, she navigates her bicycle and side cart through hectic traffic every day, collecting recyclables to resell to make ends meet. This human interest and environmental justice film shines a light on the working conditions of waste collectors, their critical contributions to the circular economy and what it takes to survive.

Honest and unabashed, Riza asks us to take a closer look and challenges our assumptions about who matters. Watch the trailer.

Want to help us complete the film? We are excited to share Ensemble is partnering with SIMA Studios, a global, social impact-focused non-profit and fiscal sponsor. Email Director Stephanie Foerster via the Contact Page to find out more.