My name is Kristiina Iilane. I am a young woman who was born and raised in Estonia, on our biggest island. I have always been curious about what is happening in the world and enjoy observing my surroundings. Paying attention to details and changes is something deeply ingrained in me. As I began to explore both the world around me and within me, I discovered my calling in documentary filmmaking and capturing moments through the lens of a camera.

The documentary field has so much to offer and teach, but what I value most so far is the opportunity to devote my time to someone and, through this, show them the beauty of themselves and their stories. Ah, oh boy, this world is filled with fascinating stories! You just have to wander around with an open heart and mind and be ready to receive the magic.

Besides holding a camera and sitting behind the editing desk, I have also been a board member of the Estonian Documentary Guild since autumn 2023. For the past two years, I have been organising the annual Documentary Summer School, which is the main gathering for Estonian documentary filmmakers. Since 2023, I have been coordinating our creative documentary workshop, Ice and Fire Docs, a collaboration between Estonia and Finland.