Jennifer Brea

Jennifer Brea is a prominent American documentary filmmaker and advocate, known for her impactful work in raising awareness about chronic illness. Her debut feature, *Unrest*, premiered at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival in 2017, where it garnered the US Documentary Special Jury Award for Editing. In addition to *Unrest*, Brea co-created an innovative virtual reality film that debuted at the Tribeca Film Festival, further showcasing her creative talents.

Before her filmmaking career, Brea was pursuing a PhD in political economy and statistics at Harvard University, a path she unfortunately had to abandon due to her health struggles. She holds an AB in Politics from Princeton University and is recognized as a TED Fellow, using her platform to share her experiences and insights.

Brea's earlier career included work as a freelance journalist in regions such as China and East and Southern Africa, where she honed her storytelling skills. Born in Long Island, New York, and raised in Central Florida, she currently splits her time between New Jersey and California. Jennifer is married to Omar Wasow, a notable figure as the co-founder of BlackPlanet and a professor at Princeton University, marking a partnership that blends academia and activism. Through her films and advocacy, Brea continues to inspire and empower those affected by chronic illnesses.