PLANES, TRAINS & CANES

Dr. Mona Minkara

a.k.a The BLIND TRAVELER

Founder and Creative Lead

Natalie Guse

Videographer and Location Manager

I first met Mona working as her lowly Technical Writing Assistant at the University of Minnesota. Ignited by our shared love of cheesy puns and swashbuckling adventure, a deep friendship blossomed. Through the cold Minneapolis months, Mona researched, I studied (sometimes), and together we wistfully dreamed about traveling the world. Enter Planes, Trains and Canes—Mona’s golden brainchild for the holy grail of all adventures. Together, we worked without rest planning a documentary series so inspiring, so cheesy, and so action-packed that you wouldn’t even have to see it to be moved by it. In all sincerity, I’m honored to be a part of the Planes, Trains and Canes team, to be trusted to capture the footage as a first-time camerawoman, and, most importantly, to have the pleasure of knowing and working with Mona. Why are you still reading this? Go watch an episode. You’re still reading. Watch them all!

Benjamin Ted Jimenez

Editor and Co-creative Director

Hello! I'm Benjamin Ted Jimenez, one of the editors for Planes, Trains and Canes. By now, you've probably heard my voice throughout our episodes either from introducing the titles, or from the audio descriptions or even the closed captioning. I also handle the graphics, animations, music and more! I've got a diverse set of knowledge and experience in the video and media industry from working as a co-op at WGBH and Soundtrack Boston in the Northeast. As well as working in the independent music scene in the Philippines, planning concerts, filming promotional content and music videos with Stages Sessions. Regardless, I'm learning more and more with each episode of Planes, Trains and Canes, and I'm open to feedback on how I can create a better experience for you so that we may continue to inspire new travelers out there! Reach out via our contact page if you have any questions or comments. Can't wait until we can all safely travel the world again. But for now, sit back, relax and enjoy Planes, Trains and Canes! Hope you are all staying safe out there!

Prithvi Macha

Social Media Manager

Hello! I'm Prithvi and use social media to amplify the narrative of Dr. Minkara's solo travels as an adventurer who is blind. Inspired by her profound message of "Vision is More than Sight", I harness PTC's digital platforms to educate and connect audiences globally about the unique "unseen" travel experience of Dr. Minkara. I love using my social media skills to contribute towards fostering meaningful conversations on disability access in public transportation with the hope of catalyzing a more inclusive world.

Sara Altair

Web Developer and Website Manager

Hi! I'm Sara and continuously design, develop, maintain, and update this website. I also provide content strategy for content displayed on the website. I hope this website will further amplify Mona Minkara's message and reach audiences around the globe.

Dr. Elizabeth Janney

Creative Designer and Content Strategist

Hello! My name is Elizabeth Janney, and I'm a writer for Planes, Trains and Canes. I'm so honored to be part of this amazing creative team. I have an interdisciplinary background in contemporary international arts and science/new technologies. I deeply believe in the power of arts education to bring sustainable change. From the first time I watched Planes, Trains and Canes, I was so inspired by Mona's adventures that I couldn't wait to share them!