Jere Hietala

Jere Hietala is a Finnish visual storyteller, security professional and preparedness advocate whose work has been shaped through real-world experience across international environments.

Over the past two decades, Hietala has become widely recognized for documentary and field-based storytelling, with assignments spanning more than 60 countries across Europe, Africa and the Middle East. His work has included collaborations with international brands, public sector organizations and demanding field operations where trust, adaptability and credibility are essential.

Alongside his visual work, Hietala has worked professionally within the security sector for more than eight years in both private and government-connected environments. This combination of operational experience and documentary work has given him a unique perspective on preparedness, resilience and human behavior under pressure.

His photography and documentary work have received more than 20 domestic and international awards and recognitions, including honors for advertising photography, conservation work and voluntary contributions supporting national defense initiatives. His work has also been featured internationally, including in publications such as Vanity Fair Italy, as well as exhibitions in Milan and Dubai.

Hietala is also known for his long-term involvement in conservation and anti-poaching efforts in Southern Africa, subjects explored in the television documentary series Jere Hietala: On the Trail of Poachers.

Today, his work increasingly focuses on advancing practical preparedness awareness — helping individuals and organizations better understand uncertainty, risk and resilience through real-world experience.

In addition to his professional work, Hietala serves in regional preparedness and security-related responsibilities in Finland, including the Itä-Uusimaa preparedness and security committee. These roles reflect his long-term commitment to resilience, public preparedness and practical community safety.