Docu - Archiving the 5 Boroughs

About Persist

 

Founded in 2015 by two Queens, New York natives, Persist Media is an independent media production brand dedicated to documenting the people, culture, and everyday life of New York City.

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Our mission is to preserve authentic stories through documentaries, interviews, and digital storytelling that capture the diverse perspectives shaping the five boroughs. By creating a platform where people can share their experiences in their own words, we aim to encourage curiosity, understanding, and meaningful conversations across communities.

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Since our founding, Persist Media has built an archive of more than 500 interviews, creating one of the largest independent collections of first-person stories documenting New York City culture since 2015 (Pre Pandemic vs Post Pandemic). Every interview is centered on allowing individuals to tell their stories without unnecessary narration, giving audiences an honest and balanced view of the city's people and neighborhoods.

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Our editorial approach is built on three principles:

• Authentic storytelling driven by the interviewee's own voice.

• Balanced, independent journalism that encourages dialogue over division.

• Educational media that preserves the culture, history, and evolution of New York City for future generations.​

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While our roots are firmly planted in the five boroughs—The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island—our stories often explore broader themes that resonate far beyond New York.

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Our content covers a wide range of subjects, including:

• NYC neighborhoods and urban life

• Culture, identity, and community

• History and local perspectives

• Food and small businesses

• Arts, music, and entertainment

• Sports and fandom

• Technology and innovation

• Transportation and infrastructure

• Economics and entrepreneurship

• Social issues and public opinion

• Travel, lifestyle, and emerging trends​

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As Persist Media continues to grow, our commitment remains the same: to create thoughtful, engaging media that informs, preserves, and celebrates the voices of New York City while connecting audiences around the world through authentic storytelling.