"To explore human behavior,
we must experience first hand what people go through."
Exploring the world. Uncovering the human story
I seek out the unfamiliar and step into different cultures few get to experience. Through exploration and documentary work, I uncover stories and perspectives that challenge what we think we know about people and the world.
What is anything if it can't be shared?
About
From evacuating wounded soldiers in Ukraine to spending three months traveling as a nomadic herder in Mongolia, my journeys have taken me into worlds far removed from my own. I've travelled across the Sahara, lived with Berber communities and spent nights under the stars with Bedouins in Jordan.
My documentary work has taken me from investigating the impact of major events on Israeli society to researching autonomous weapons within the military and following police investigations into drug laboratories. These experiences have given me access to people, places and situations few outsiders get to witness.
My professional background spans military service, close protection and independent journalism, supported by a degree in journalism. I've spent much of my career working with people in high-stakes environments, combining firsthand field experience with research, investigation and documentary storytelling. My work focuses on the human stories behind events, not the sensationalism surrounding them. I seek to understand human behavior from the inside, not from a distance.
Insights
Stepping into different cultures has challenged my assumptions, shifted my perspective and changed much of what I thought I knew.
I share the insights and lessons I've gathered because firsthand experiences hold knowledge worth preserving. I aim to offer others new perspectives on what makes us human.
Ask me how I can help you or your team grow.
An essential part of my work is producing documentaries and creating stories with an original approach to storytelling. In the Editions page limited photography from these productions is available.
Film
Stuck Between War and Conviction
A personal, observational documentary about the realities of frontline evacuations and human connection, featuring Maria and Rick Jens.
The film is currently being submitted to international film festivals.
Book
Becoming a Nomad
A three-month solo expedition. After surviving sandstorms and blizzards, I discover Mongolian culture. Slowly, I reconnect with the person I lost a long time ago.
In the final stages of writing
What people say
Mitchel Gorrison
NCO, Dutch Army
Rick was a pleasure to have around. Always in good spirits, and I learned something new from him every day.
Jordan Leow
Businessman, Singapore
I couldn't have wished for anyone better to accompany me on an expedition. Rick is a reliable person and a good storyteller to boot.