Diana Davis grew up in a home where encouragement was constant and kindness was a daily practice. Her parents taught her that joy is amplified when shared and that hard work can coexist with fun. These early lessons shaped a lifelong commitment to living with purpose, gratitude, and a desire to bring as many people along with her as possible.
Diana Davis
From Actress to Advocate
Her professional journey began in New York, where she worked as an actress in her early twenties. Even then, she encountered activists raising awareness about human trafficking, yet she felt unsure how she could help. Decades later, after building a successful career as a Realtor in Scottsdale, fate intervened at a Christmas party. A conversation with award-winning investigative reporter Mike Watkiss introduced her to the realities of the FLDS cult and the untold suffering within its communities. That moment became a turning point. Determined not to look away again, she committed to producing her first film, despite having no prior experience. The result, Cathedral Canyon, won the Audience Choice Award at the 2014 Palm Beach International Film Festival.
Creating Films That Give Voice to Survivors
Her second film, Cult Cartel, emerged from the heartfelt vision of philanthropist Jack Koch, who believed survivors themselves should tell their stories. After his unexpected passing, Diana honored his final wish by bringing the project to life. Filmed on location in Colorado City, the production united Hollywood actors with real-life survivors, many of whom worked as cast, crew, makeup artists, and even caterers. Directed by Paul Davis and featuring actors like Donny Most, Jud Tylor, Winsor Harmon, and survivor Young Barlow, the film became a powerful collaboration rooted in authenticity and healing.
A Nonprofit Dedicated to Real Impact
Beyond filmmaking, Diana founded MoviesMakingADifference (MMAD), an organization devoted to supporting survivors of human trafficking, child labor, and forced marriage. Her approach is deeply personal. MMAD provides individualized aid, ranging from therapy and housing to education, employment opportunities, and long-term emotional support. For many survivors, Diana is the first person outside their community they have ever met. Her belief in staying involved for life has become a defining characteristic of the organization.
Overcoming Barriers with Determination
Diana’s efforts have often faced resistance, including attempts to intimidate or silence her. Despite these challenges, she pressed forward, expanding awareness and building networks of support across the country. Her persistence led to the establishment of MMAD’s Safe House in Florida, providing immediate refuge for survivors in urgent need of protection. With more than 150 individuals supported over the years, the work continues with compassion and resolve.
A Life Intertwined with Purpose
For Diana, her films, advocacy, and daily life form one unified mission. MoviesMakingADifference has grown into what she lovingly calls her “big MMAD Family,” a community of donors, survivors, and supporters who share experiences, milestones, and moments of joy. Through storytelling and tangible action, she continues to shine a light on injustice while celebrating the resilience of those she serves.
Diana Davis proves that when empathy becomes action, one person can inspire transformation—one life at a time.
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