A powerful digital documentary project from NJ PBS is giving New Jersey residents a clearer, more personal look at how geography shapes opportunity. The award-winning “21” series, produced by NJ Spotlight News, has now completed its full run, profiling one resident in each of the state’s 21 counties while exploring a central and increasingly urgent question: does where you live in New Jersey determine how you live?
Rather than relying on abstract data points alone, the series brings its message to life through deeply human stories. Each short film centers on a resident whose daily experience reflects the social, economic, and environmental realities of their community. Through these personal narratives, viewers gain insight into how factors such as access to health care, education, employment, housing stability, transportation, and clean water shape quality of life across the Garden State.
Throughout December, NJ Spotlight News aired special editions hosted by Briana Vannozzi that highlighted several of the project’s most compelling voices. In Hudson County, Shayla Cabrera’s story traced her rise as the owner of Tia Planta, making her one of New Jersey’s few licensed female cannabis cultivators while navigating regulatory and financial hurdles in a rapidly evolving industry. Essex County viewers were introduced to Fallon Davis, a Newark-based educator using innovative arts and science programs to expand learning opportunities for local youth who are often overlooked by traditional systems.
In Camden County, the focus turned to Karanveer Pannu, whose work as a bullying prevention specialist and appointment to the Voorhees Township Zoning Board marked historic representation for the Sikh community while addressing inclusion and civic participation. Union County’s profile followed Rahway resident Kashinda Marche, founder of Kreative on Purpose, who has transformed personal experience into advocacy by working to dismantle stigma surrounding HIV and create safer spaces for education and support. Somerset County’s episode spotlighted Cindy Ehrenclou of Raritan Headwaters, whose leadership in environmental stewardship has become central to the fight for clean water access and watershed protection. Cumberland County’s segment centered on Edgar Aquino-Huerta, a longtime advocate pushing for immigration reform and fair labor practices for farmworkers who form the backbone of South Jersey’s agricultural economy.
Together, these stories form a mosaic of New Jersey life that feels both intimate and far-reaching. They reveal how policy decisions, community investment, and social infrastructure converge in everyday moments, shaping whether families thrive or struggle. The films also underscore how changemakers across the state are responding to these conditions, often with limited resources but deep commitment to their communities.
The “21” series has also introduced county-by-county statistical snapshots, giving viewers a data-driven lens to accompany the storytelling. These profiles provide context around income, health outcomes, education levels, and access to services, reinforcing the idea that personal stories and public policy are inextricably linked.
Residents interested in community-focused reporting and in-depth coverage of the issues shaping towns and cities across the state can explore additional local features through Explore New Jersey’s local news section, which highlights civic initiatives, cultural developments, and grassroots efforts statewide.
By weaving together narrative journalism, data, and public broadcasting, the “21” project has created a rare, comprehensive portrait of New Jersey at a human scale. It stands as both a mirror and a roadmap, showing not only where the state has been, but where attention, investment, and leadership can make the greatest difference in the years ahead. You can watch the NJ Spotlight News here.
