My brother is a genius. He knew how to program an algebra calculator to run a function game of Flappy Bird in sixth grade. He can solve a Rubik’s cube in less than a minute. He got an Ivy League education in computer science and moved to Seattle after graduation to work corporate in one of the biggest companies in the world. I, on the other hand, did not get straight A’s in grades 1 through 12. I did not know how to code at the ripe age of 13, and I certainly cannot solve a Rubik’s cube. I was the kid who did really well in art class but needed tutoring in math. I was diagnosed with ADHD in 7th grade and had to prepare for standardized tests much longer than the average kid. However, if there is one thing I know how to do, it’s tell a story. Growing up, I loved to make videos. Whether it was a music video for a Jay Sean song or a rant about why grated parmesan cheese is better than shredded, I’ve always had a connection to  storytelling through moving images.

 I have been a storyteller since I was 9 years old. Picking up my dad’s iPad, grabbing my friends next door, and using my loudmouth and bossy nature to direct them in my stories. Some days they were zombies, other days dancers or girls in love. They’d dress up in costumes and ridiculous makeup and we would all work together to bring a story to life. As I grew up so did my skills. An iPad turned into my first camera, my neighbors to classmates, an app to premiere and a backyard to a real set. 

One of the most monumental things that has ever happened to me during my filmmaking career thus far was being the first female DP at a film program made for young people. This program has been running for over 20 years. It was my first look into what this industry looks like for women and how important it is to use your voice, and more importantly trust your voice. Part of my passion for filmmaking is using the medium to educate and speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. It is our responsibility as artists to use these platforms we create in an impactful way and tell stories that need to be told. 

Despite making films for what feels like my entire life, my passion has never withered. I still feel the magic of bringing a story to life, the excitement of being on set and the satisfaction of seeing that final product. In the past years I have made several projects that I can confidently say I am proud of. My latest project was made in my Micro Budget course, which teaches students to use the resources they have available to them to create the best film they can. After a couple days of shooting and navigating directing actors using entirely improv, the result was a 20-minute-long, completely wild experimental film that has been one of my favorite projects to date. This project reminded me why I wanted to be a filmmaker and what filmmaking really is to me. Filmmaking to me is about trusting your gut and having fun while bringing to life the weird ideas you have as an artist. Filmmaking is all about collaborating and trusting not only yourself, but your team. Most importantly, it is about believing in your story and telling it right. I am so excited to bring my ideas and passions to JTWO and continue to learn and grow as a filmmaker and storyteller in the months to come.