Mandala Productions Redefines Global Storytelling from the Philippines

Mandala Productions, under Johanna Kirsten Lagman, connects cultures and crafts content that resonates globally, offering a fresh perspective on storytelling.

Philippines, 23rd Jul 2025 – When Johanna Kirsten Lagman first embarked on her journey in content production, she never imagined that a small yet ambitious production house would one day shape the global storytelling landscape. Founded in 2003, Mandala Productions is now a respected name globally as content creators and production services partner, known for its commitment to cultural authenticity and powerful, unscripted narratives. From the bustling streets of Manila to the remote corners of the world, Mandala has teamed with experienced industry professionals to tell stories and experiences that capture the interest of global viewers.

In the early 2000s, Johanna saw an opportunity to create a production company that was more than just a service provider. It would serve as a bridge between local cultures and international audiences. Mandala Productions, named after the sacred symbol of interconnectedness, quickly gained recognition for its ability to craft authentic, emotionally resonant stories with a regional touch. The company set out to bring unscripted formats and reality TV programming to life, offering complete production solutions for global brands and streaming giants and creatively adapting to the ever-changing climate of the industry.

 Johanna’s vision was clear: to showcase the untold stories of Asia while maintaining cultural sensitivity and respect. “We’re not just a service provider; we’re storytellers, connectors, and cultural navigators,” she says, reflecting on her career. It’s this dedication to authenticity that has set Mandala apart in an industry that often prioritizes quick-turnaround content over meaningful storytelling.

Overcoming Challenges: Expanding Across Borders

 As Mandala Productions grew, Johanna faced challenges that many production houses would find daunting. Organizing shoots across multiple countries, navigating diverse cultural landscapes, and maintaining a consistent narrative quality required meticulous planning and strong relationships with local partners. Yet Johanna thrived in these complex environments, drawing on her vast experience in Asia’s diverse and rapidly changing production landscape. Her deep respect for local communities and commitment to sharing their stories has earned her the trust of governments, communities, and multinational crews alike.

 Mandala’s success is not purely a product of logistical skill; it is also due to its ability to cultivate deep emotional connections with both the talent behind the camera and the cultures in front of it. One of Mandala’s recent successes, the newest season of Somebody Feed Phil on Netflix, is a prime example of how Johanna and her team bring these values to life. The production, filmed in the Philippines, explores the local culinary scene and cultural richness, making the audience feel as though they are experiencing the country firsthand.

Going Beyond Facilitation

 Mandala Productions has now entered a new chapter, expanding into original content production. This marks a pivotal turning point in the company’s history, one that aligns with Johanna’s long-term vision to not only facilitate high-profile productions but also create compelling, original narratives that reflect local perspectives while appealing to global audiences.

 “This next step allows us to turn stories into something more than entertainment,” Johanna shares. “By focusing on authentic collaboration, we aim to make local stories global and global stories deeply relatable, crossing cultural divides and speaking to universal human experiences.”

 Mandala’s transition into original content is a natural evolution for the company, whose success has always been built on its ability to tell stories that matter. Whether it’s a docu-series about a remote indigenous community or a travel show showcasing the hidden gems of the Philippines, Mandala has cultivated a reputation for delivering content that speaks to the heart.

What Makes Mandala Unique: A Commitment to Cultural Sensitivity

 At the heart of Mandala’s ethos is a deep commitment to cultural sensitivity. Unlike many other production companies that operate solely on a transactional basis, Mandala’s approach is rooted in collaboration. The company’s team works closely with local governments and cultural bodies to ensure that each production respects the traditions, customs, and values of the community being portrayed.

 “The goal is to ensure that every narrative is told in the most respectful and authentic way possible,” Johanna emphasizes. This approach not only elevates the quality of the content but also fosters positive relationships with the communities that are featured. Mandala’s productions often provide economic benefits to the areas they film in, creating job opportunities and boosting local tourism.

Building Global Alliances: The Power of Cooperation

 Mandala Productions prides itself on building alliances rather than competing with other production houses. The company’s ability to work alongside global content creators while maintaining its commitment to authenticity has earned it recognition as a leader in cross-border collaboration. Johanna’s philosophy has always been clear: “We’re not here to race ahead of others; we’re here to collaborate, learn, and create something truly impactful.”

 Mandala Productions continues to strengthen relationships with various international content creators, working on co-productions and partnerships to bring regional stories to global platforms.

The Future of Mandala Productions: Stories Without Borders

 As Mandala Productions continues to expand its reach, Johanna and her team are focused on their mission: creating content that transcends borders and unites cultures. With plans to produce even more original content and grow their partnerships across Asia and beyond, Mandala is positioned to shape the future of global storytelling.

 “We have always seen our work as a way to connect the world through stories,” Johanna says. “As we move forward, we want to bring those connections to an even larger audience—to help people from all walks of life find something to relate to, understand, and share.”
With its unique blend of creative ambition, cultural fluency, and dedication to authentic narratives, Mandala Productions continues to redefine what it means to be a global content producer.

 Mandala Productions is not just a production company; it’s a gateway to powerful, cross-cultural narratives. Whether you’re a global creator looking for a partner with deep regional knowledge or a local storyteller seeking to make your voice heard worldwide, Mandala offers a platform where stories come to life with authenticity and heart. Join Johanna and her team as they continue to reshape the world of storytelling, one borderless narrative at a time.
Visit www.teammandala.com to learn more, or follow @teammandala on Instagram for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes action.

About Mandala Productions

 Founded in 2003, Mandala Productions is a global content creation and production company specializing in authentic storytelling. From unscripted formats and reality TV to original content, Mandala bridges cultural divides to create compelling, emotionally resonant narratives. Under the leadership of Johanna Kirsten Lagman, the company works with global brands and streaming platforms to produce high-quality content that highlights local cultures and stories while appealing to a worldwide audience.

Media Contact:
 
Founder: Johanna Kirsten Lagman
Email: mandala_admin@icloud.com 
Website: Mandala Productions
Instagram: @teammandala
LinkedIn: Johanna Kirsten Lagman

Media Contact

Organization: Mandala Productions

Contact Person: Johanna Kirsten Lagman

Website: http://www.teammandala.com/

Email: Send Email

Country: Philippines

Release Id: 23072531183