During the late 1800’s the English started to colonize East Africa, and it wasn’t until 1963 that Kenya became independent.  Since then, modernization, western influence, the building of city centers, road construction and agriculture have infected the Maasai way of life.  This urbanization has resulted in alcoholism, materialism and uncontrollable garbage which are unfamiliar to the Maasai and create added stress to their culture.  If this continues, the Maasai will be gone forever.  Now is a critical time when the Maasai have to hold on to their heritage, embrace the coming wave of change and find an acceptable medium.

Brad Minnich, D.E.R. and the Shampoli Maasai want to preserve the Maasai’s culture before it is too late.  With unprecedented access, the Maasai Project documented the Warrior's ceremony which is being threatened by the outside world. 

MAASAI:  A WARRIOR'S RITE OF PASSAGE  is used to create awareness around the world through existing media outlets including theaters, television, universities, libraries, internet, DVD and video.  The film increases donor relations and generates revenue that has helped fund educational services, purchase food and build homes for the Maasai.  With the completion of the film and philanthropy projects the Maasai have been able to control of their future, preserve their culture and manage the inevitable wave of change.