Reel Works Youth Ambassadors: In Their Own Words
At Reel Works, we're not just teaching filmmaking – we're shaping the future of storytelling. Our programs are designed to empower young voices, providing them with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to share their unique perspectives with the world. But don't just take our word for it. Let's hear from two of our 2023-2024 Youth Ambassadors about their experiences in our programs.
From Jitters to Joy: Kami's Doc Lab Journey
Kami Cooper, a participant in our 2023-2024 Doc Lab program, describes her experience as one filled with "jitters." Under the guidance of instructors Lisa Durden and John Williams, Kami dove into the world of documentary filmmaking.
"I learned the basics of operating a Lumix camera and cinematography tips such as keeping the subject away from the background and the rule of thirds," Kami shares. These fundamental skills have already begun to shape her creative approach. "I've been more experimental with my cinematography," she notes, highlighting the program's immediate impact on her work.
Balancing the demands of school and filmmaking was challenging for Kami. "It was a bit stressful, needing to balance school and filming," she admits. But her perseverance paid off: "I did manage to finish, and I'm proud of the result."
A Foundation for the Future: Chidiogo's Narrative Fellows Experience
Chidiogo Igboekwe, a participant in our 2023-2024 Narrative Fellows program, describes her experience as "foundational." With a team of expert instructors, including Anthony Artis for cinematography and Hector for directing, Chidiogo gained a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process.
"I learned about liaising, collaboration, blocking/framing, and how to convey mood without being expository," Chidiogo explains. This knowledge has transformed the way she engages with media. "When watching films/TV shows, I now find myself analyzing things from a director's point of view rather than an average media consumer," she shares.
The impact of the program extends beyond the classroom for Chidiogo. "Now I'm taking pictures of shots/angles that I see and would like recreated on future shoots I direct," she says, "making sure I'm also noting why I like the shot and what it can help reveal to the audience under certain scenarios."
The Reel Works Difference
Both Kami and Chidiogo highlight the transformative nature of their Reel Works experiences. For Chidiogo, who didn't study film in college, the program "has helped bridge some gaps in my knowledge." She adds, "I always looked forward to attending these workshops and sitting in my unassigned seat in the front row!”
These stories exemplify what we strive for at Reel Works – to provide young filmmakers with technical skills and the confidence and vision to tell their stories. Whether it's overcoming the "jitters" of balancing school and filmmaking or building a "foundational" understanding of directing, our programs are designed to meet each student where they are and help them grow.
As we continue to nurture the next generation of diverse storytellers, we're inspired by the passion and creativity of young filmmakers like Kami and Chidiogo. Their journeys remind us why we do what we do, and we can't wait to see where their newfound skills and perspectives will take them in the film world.