“Journey With Giovanny”: The Path Of Friendship From Colombia To Chattanooga

Pedro Abriles, Giovanny Padilla Mojica and Steve Derthick - while at the Chattanooga Zoo to film the song “El Tigre Enjaulado” for “Journey with Giovanny.”(Steve Derthick)It’s a story of two friends across languages and continents - with meanings beyond maps.In 2008, Steve Derthick and his family here in Chattanooga moved to Colombia for a service mission with the Mennonite Central Committee, a worldwide ministry for relief, development and peace.There, Steve met Giovanny Padilla Mojica, the doorman at their gated apartment complex - and they became friends.After Steve and his family returned home, he stayed in touch with Giovanny over the years.In 2022, Giovanny left Colombia for the United States.That story is told in a bilingual album of songs, “Escenas del Viaje” - and a film, “Journey With Giovanny.”Both works are a collaboration between Steve, Giovanny and Pedro Abriles - a Chilean singer, songwriter, and producer who now lives in Chattanooga.On Saturday, March 23rd and Sunday, March 24th, the film will be screened at multiple locations in this city.I spoke with Steve, Giovanny and Pedro - with Steve interpreting our questions for Giovanny and interpreting his answers for us.