There were a lot of unexpected things that happened in the past two or three years. Two years ago, we were all impacted by the global pandemic and a lot of us lost opportunities, jobs, even lives. I never expected anything after COVID hit because I was so used to expecting nothing. That is until I got this email that I was accepted into the All American High School Film Festival and it gave me hope and motivation.

It was unexpected and I did not even know Mr. Cavada had entered my film or that there were film festivals. This was such an amazing opportunity for me and gave me a new perspective in life. New York was amazing and I’ll never forget this whole experience. When I arrived at the fim festival to see all these student filmmakers with all this super talent to come in one place, I felt very honored. It was even more amazing to watch and see their stories on the big screen. I loved that we watched the films and it was not just one genre. I was able to see all types of film.

Often young people are underrated, and the film festival was a place where young people’s talent and stories were seen and heard.

It is amazing how talented all the filmmakers are. Often young people are underrated, and the film festival was a place where young people’s talent and stories were seen and heard. So even if you are not a film student, one can still make films and tell their story. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to tell my story of being Asian and having pride in my culture.