We are beyond honored to share that The Change Baker has received the Moving Mountains Award at the 2025 Mountainfilm Festival in Telluride, Colorado.
This award celebrates films that don’t just tell stories—they drive change. It includes a grant, supporting both the filmmaker and an associated nonprofit, and is funded in part by Tully & Elise Friedman. For us, this recognition is more than a moment of pride—it’s a message: immigrant stories matter.
https://www.mountainfilm.org/festival/awards/moving-mountains-award
ABOUT THE FILM
Directed by Courtney Dixon and brought to life by the brilliant teams at @sequiturcinema and @coatofarmstv, The Change Baker follows the story of Manolo Betancur, a former Army captain from Colombia who fled war to pursue peace and purpose in the U.S. What he built was more than a bakery in North Carolina—it became a sanctuary for immigrants, a platform for activism, and a slice of the American dream, served fresh daily.
“Made in America by the Hands of Immigrants” is more than a slogan—it’s the heartbeat of this story.
DIRECTOR’S STATEMENT
From filmmaker Courtney Dixon:
“As the world emerged from lockdown and the haze of isolation began to lift, one unexpected skill stayed with me—bread making. Then I stumbled upon an article about the Bread Hero Award. A bread hero? Intrigued, I read on. And there he was—Manolo, front and center. His bakery wasn’t just churning out loaves; it was transforming his community. His slogan—Made in America by the hands of immigrants—isn’t just a phrase. It’s a truth woven into this country’s fabric.
Immigrants don’t just contribute to America—they are America.
They open bakeries before dawn, harvest our food, care for our children, heal our sick, and dream the impossible into existence.
Manolo’s journey is just one of millions. Immigration isn’t a chapter in our history—it is our story.”
THIS AWARD BELONGS TO ALL IMMIGRANTS
From Manolo:
“This award belongs to every immigrant in America—those who have been arrested without due process, who have been treated as criminals, who keep this country running with their hands and hearts. We are the engine of this nation.
This award is for you—mi gente, mi raza. Gracias.”
SPECIAL THANKS
A massive thank you to: @mountainfilm – for believing in stories that move mountains. The Telluride community – for your hospitality and warmth. @sequiturcinema & @coatofarmstv – your brilliance brought this vision to life. The entire production team – your talent and heart are in every frame @byimmigranthands @manolosbakeryclt @artisengelato @highergrounds.cafe – for living this mission every day.
The Change Baker premiered at Mountainfilm 2025, a festival known for amplifying advocacy and community. As senior programmer Robin Robinson shared: “I hope these films move you, challenge you and inspire you to chase your own summit.” We couldn’t say it better.
🔗 Watch the trailer 💛 Support immigrant voices 📍 Follow along: @TheChangeBaker | @manolosbakeryclt
#TheChangeBaker #Mountainfilm2025 #MovingMountainsAward #ImmigrantVoices #FilmWithPurpose #StoriesThatMatter #ManolosBakery #Telluride
