Catherine Gund is a powerhouse in the world of documentary filmmaking, known for her unwavering commitment to social justice and her ability to tell stories that spark change. As the founder and director of Aubin Pictures, Gund has carved out a space in the media landscape where art meets activism. Her work isn’t just about capturing moments on film; it’s about fueling movements.

An Emmy-nominated and Academy-shortlisted filmmaker, Gund has directed and produced documentaries that have left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. From the raw, unflinching look at life inside a Louisiana penitentiary in Angola Do You Hear Us? Voices from a Plantation Prison (2022), directed and edited by Cinque Northern, to the inspiring tale of her mother’s philanthropy in Aggie (2020), her films demonstrate her belief in the power of storytelling to effect social transformation. Her projects have been showcased in prestigious venues around the globe—festivals, theaters, museums, and more—while also reaching millions through platforms like PBS, HBO, Netflix, and Amazon Prime.

But Gund’s impact extends far beyond the screen. A graduate of Brown University and the Whitney Museum Independent Study Program, she has dedicated her life to HIV/AIDS awareness, racial justice, reproductive rights, and environmental sustainability. Her latest directorial works, Paint Me a Road Out of Here and Meanwhile (both 2024) promise to continue this legacy, challenging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and inspiring them to act.

Gund’s influence is also felt through her extensive board work. She serves on the boards of Art for Justice, Art Matters, Baldwin for the Arts, the George Gund Foundation, and JustMedia, among others. She also cofounded the Third Wave Foundation, which champions the rights of young women and transgender youth, and DIVA TV, a pioneering video collective that emerged from the AIDS activist group ACT UP/NY.