Get to know the minds behind the movement.
Name:
Billy Maeda
Where are you from?
I was born in a small town 2 hours south of Guatemala City, Guatemala. At the age of five, my family relocated to Los Angeles, California then to a small apartment in Southern Lancaster County. I am graduating in December 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy from Millersville University, becoming a first-generation graduate.
Tell us a little about your professional background.
I have over six years of experience working as an independent contractor, providing professional videography and photography services across a wide range of industries. My work began in sports, collaborating with teams such as Saint Joseph’s University Lacrosse, Millersville University, and organizations in football, wrestling, basketball, and volleyball. Over time, I’ve expanded my expertise beyond athletics into commercial real estate, weddings, fashion, headshots, and other creative projects, continually refining my craft to deliver high-quality, impactful visuals.
What is your passion?
My passion is capturing real, human stories in a way that feels authentic and cinematic. I love taking raw moments and turning them into something timeless — whether that’s highlighting the energy of an event, the heart of a community, or the story of a single person. Videography, to me, is about connection.
What morals and values do you live your life by?
I was born and raised in a strong, faith-filled Christian household, taught to treat others the way God treats us every day with empathy, honesty, kindness, and integrity. I believe in treating people with respect, no matter the circumstance, and I try to approach every project with a sense of responsibility, not just to do great work, but to represent people truthfully.
What is a quote that speaks to you?
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou. This guides how I approach both my work and my relationships.
When you leave a room, what do you want people to say about you?
I hope people say that I listened, brought positive energy, and made them feel seen and respected.
What’s a belief you once held strongly that you’ve since changed your mind about — and what changed it?
I used to believe that perfection was the ultimate goal. Over time, I realized that chasing perfection often stifles creativity. Now, I believe authenticity matters more — capturing something real resonates far deeper than something polished but soulless.
What do you love the most about Lancaster?
The balance of community and creativity. Lancaster has such a rich blend of tradition and innovation, where small-town values meet forward-thinking ideas. It feels like a place where people truly invest in one another.
What does a perfect day in Lancaster County look like to you?
Starting with coffee from a local shop, exploring the countryside with a camera in hand, connecting with people at the market or a community event, and ending the day with friends at a local restaurant surrounded by good conversation and a sense of belonging.
What does the phrase “Next Generation of Lancaster” mean to you?
It means honoring the foundation of Lancaster’s history and culture while carrying it forward in new, creative ways. To me, the “next generation” represents innovation rooted in community, bringing fresh ideas but never losing sight of what makes Lancaster special.
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This blog post was a Q&A, questions crafted by Jordyn Ney, answers provided by Billy Maeda.