Behind The Film
Meet the Creators
Shondale Nicole Atkinson
Executive Producer
Shondale is a community advocate, entrepreneur, and the founder of The Mustard Seed Foundation. She is also the executive producer of Beyond The System, bringing her expertise and personal passion for foster care reform to the project. Having experienced the foster care system firsthand, living in 21 different foster homes, Shondale deeply understands the challenges and gaps within the system. Her work has long focused on improving the lives of children in vulnerable communities and her involvement in this documentary stems from her desire to inspire positive change and advocate for meaningful reform.
Thomas Troutman
LEAD EDITOR
Thomas is the lead editor of Beyond The System: A Journey Through Foster Care and played a pivotal role in the film’s production. With a keen eye for storytelling and technical expertise, Thomas helped shape the documentary’s powerful narrative, ensuring that the voices and experiences of those impacted by the foster care system are authentically and compellingly portrayed. His dedication and artistry were instrumental in bringing this project to life.
Angela K. Davis
Co-Producer
Angela is a key member of the production team for Beyond The System. Her dedication and expertise have been instrumental in bringing the documentary to life, ensuring that the stories of those impacted by the foster care system are captured with authenticity and depth. Through her contributions, Angela has helped shape a compelling and thought-provoking film.
Steven Muhammad
Co-producer
Steven is a seasoned filmmaker and co-producer of Beyond The System. His passion for storytelling and commitment to social justice are reflected in his work on this project, helping to craft a narrative that speaks to both the challenges and the triumphs within the foster care system.
Tiffany Countryman
Creative Director
Tiffany is an award-winning filmmaker and creative director of Beyond The System. Known for creating socially impactful documentaries that explore critical issues facing underrepresented populations, Tiffany brings an unflinching look at the foster care system and the people whose lives it shapes.