As a 17-year-old bisexual young woman, I have navigated the complexities of identity and aspiration within a community where many individuals face significant challenges in realizing their dreams. Growing up as a first-generation college student, I have witnessed firsthand the obstacles that can impede one’s path to success, including limited access to resources and support. These experiences have profoundly shaped my passion for film production and my determination to use this medium to amplify underrepresented voices. From an early age, storytelling through film has been my creative outlet. I have been captivated by the power of visual narratives to evoke emotions, challenge perspectives, and inspire change. This passion led me to immerse myself in various aspects of filmmaking, from scriptwriting to directing and editing. I have actively participated in school film clubs and community workshops, seizing every opportunity to hone my craft and collaborate with others who share my enthusiasm. In my community, I have observed that many stories remain untold, particularly those of marginalized groups. This realization has fueled my commitment to creating films that highlight these narratives, fostering empathy and understanding among diverse audiences. I believe that by bringing these stories to the forefront, I can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society. One of my proudest accomplishments is the short documentary I produced, which explores the experiences of LGBTQ+ youth in our community. Through personal interviews and candid footage, the film sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of these individuals, offering a platform for their voices to be heard. The positive reception of this project reinforced my belief in the transformative power of film and solidified my resolve to pursue a career in film production. My personal and professional goals are deeply intertwined with my desire to effect positive change through storytelling. I aspire to attend a reputable film school where I can further develop my skills and expand my understanding of the industry. My ultimate aim is to establish a production company dedicated to creating content that challenges societal norms and uplifts underrepresented communities. What distinguishes me from other applicants is my unique perspective as a bisexual young woman from a community where many do not have the opportunity to pursue their passions. My journey has been characterized by resilience, empathy, and a steadfast commitment to advocacy through art. I have not only overcome personal challenges but have also leveraged my experiences to inspire and support others. Receiving the Adam Montes Pride Scholarship would alleviate the financial burdens associated with higher education, allowing me to focus on my studies and creative projects. It would also honor the legacy of Adam Montes by supporting a student who embodies his passion for education and community service. In conclusion, I believe I am a deserving recipient of this scholarship because of my dedication to using film as a vehicle for social change and my commitment to uplifting marginalized voices. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to the world of film and to carry forward the spirit of inclusivity and empowerment that Adam Montes championed.

Throughout my high school journey, I have faced numerous challenges that have tested my resilience. As a 17-year-old African American female aspiring to enter the film and production industry, I have encountered obstacles that have shaped my character and inspired those around me. One significant challenge was balancing academic responsibilities with financial hardships at home. My mother, who was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer at the age of 36, is now in remission but currently unable to work. As the sole provider, her illness brought financial strain upon our family. Despite these difficulties, I maintained a GPA above 2.7, demonstrating determination and perseverance. My commitment to my education amidst personal challenges has shown my peers that adversity can be overcome with dedication. In addition to my academic pursuits, I have been a source of encouragement for my friends. One of my close friends was hesitant to join the track team due to self-doubt. Recognizing her potential, I encouraged her to pursue her interest, emphasizing that she could achieve anything she set her mind to. She eventually joined the team and found great joy and success in the sport. This experience highlighted the importance of supporting others and believing in their abilities. Furthermore, I have consistently promoted a growth mindset among my peers. When classmates faced setbacks, such as poor grades or personal issues, I reminded them that challenges are opportunities for growth. By sharing my own experiences of overcoming obstacles, I inspired them to view difficulties as stepping stones rather than barriers. This approach aligns with research suggesting that fostering a growth mindset enhances resilience and academic achievement.  My passion for film and production has also been a platform for demonstrating resilience. The industry is known for its competitiveness and underrepresentation of minorities, particularly African American women. Despite these challenges, I remain steadfast in my goal to learn all aspects of film production, from behind-the-scenes work to bringing stories to life. I believe that films have the power to influence emotions and help people cope with various life experiences. By pursuing this path, I aim to inspire others to follow their passions, regardless of the obstacles they may face. Applying for multiple scholarships is another testament to my resilience. The financial hardships resulting from my mother’s illness have made funding my education a significant concern. However, I am determined to secure the necessary resources to attend college and achieve my dreams. Each application is an opportunity to reflect on my journey and reinforce my commitment to my goals. The Hester Richardson Powell Memorial Service Scholarship resonates deeply with me. Hester’s legacy of overcoming barriers and dedicating her life to education and service mirrors my own experiences and aspirations. Like Hester, I aim to inspire others through resilience and a commitment to community service. Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate financial burdens but also honor Hester’s memory by supporting a student who embodies her spirit of perseverance and dedication. In conclusion, my high school experiences have been marked by resilience in the face of adversity. By maintaining academic performance during personal challenges, encouraging peers to pursue their interests, promoting a growth mindset, and steadfastly pursuing my passion for film and production, I have inspired those around me. The Hester Richardson Powell Memorial Service Scholarship would significantly aid me in continuing this journey, allowing me to further my education and continue inspiring others through resilience and service.

For as long as I can remember, I have loved watching films. Movies and TV shows have always been more than just entertainment to me they made me feel things I couldn’t always put into words. Whether it was excitement, curiosity, or even comfort, films had a way of pulling me in and making me forget about everything else. But beyond just watching them, I was always fascinated by how they were made. I’d find myself wondering about everything that happened behind the scenes—how the lighting changed the mood, how music made a moment feel more intense, and how a simple camera angle could tell a whole story without a single word. I wanted to know it all. As I got older, my appreciation for film deepened, but it wasn’t until I was 16 that I truly understood the impact it could have. During that time, my mom was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at just 36 years old. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to witness, and life felt overwhelming. But in those moments, film became more than just something I enjoyed it became something that helped me cope. I found myself watching movies and shows that told stories of people going through struggles, whether it was cancer or just the challenges of everyday life. Seeing those characters push through their hardships gave me hope. It showed me that even in the darkest times, people found a way to keep going. Film became a source of comfort, a reminder that I wasn’t alone, and it made me realize just how powerful storytelling can be. That experience solidified my passion for film and production. I knew I didn’t just want to watch films I wanted to create them. I want to explore every part of it, from directing and cinematography to lighting, sound, and editing. Every single aspect of a film works together to create something meaningful, and I want to be part of bringing those stories to life. Being the first person in my family to go to college is a huge milestone for me. My mom and I have worked hard to push through financial struggles, and while it hasn’t been easy, I refuse to let anything stand in the way of my dreams. I know the power that film has the way it can heal, inspire, and change lives and I want to be part of that. Whether I’m creating a story that helps someone feel understood, providing the right lighting to set the mood, or editing scenes that bring everything together, I want to contribute to the magic of filmmaking. This scholarship would help me take a step toward that dream. Film has given me so much, and now I want to give back by creating moments that move people, just like so many films have done for me. I’m ready to work hard, learn everything I can, and make an impact through storytelling.

As a child, I dreamed of becoming a computer technician. I was fascinated by technology and how computers worked. I loved the idea of fixing machines, and helping people by getting their devices back to life. I would spend hours reading about how computers operated, trying to figure out problems that arose with our home system. There was something so satisfying about making something work again, something that seemed broken and beyond repair. It was my first real passion. However, as I got older, my interests began to shift. My experiences and the challenges I faced in life made me realize that I wanted to be a part of something more meaningful. I began to see the power of storytelling, especially through films and television. I realized how movies, TV shows, and media, can help people. Stories can touch hearts, inspire hope, and provide a sense of comfort during difficult times. I started to believe that the film industry, with its ability to reach so many people, could be my new path. I knew that I wanted to work in the film industry, especially after watching my mom fight stage 3 breast cancer. During her battle, I found myself watching films about survivors, stories of people overcoming the odds. Watching these films helped me cope with the emotional toll of seeing someone I loved go through so much pain. It was more than just entertainment for me—it was therapy. It helped me to not feel so alone in the situation, and I began to understand the healing power that films and stories can have. These stories didn’t just help me—they helped many others who were going through their own battles. It was then that I realized how much I wanted to contribute to this world of storytelling. I wanted to be part of something that can heal, inspire, and create connections with people from all walks of life. The film industry offers such a powerful platform to tell stories about survival, resilience, and hope—things that have personal significance for me. I know how much movies and television shows can help people process their emotions and deal with their own challenges. As I saw my mom survive her battle and go into remission, I knew I wanted to be part of a medium that could help others feel the same way I did: understood, empowered, and healed. Although I no longer want to pursue a career as a computer technician, the curiosity and problem-solving mindset I developed during my childhood still guide me today. I approach the world of film with the same passion for creativity and problem-solving that I had when I was interested in technology. Instead of fixing machines, I want to help create something that can fix hearts and inspire minds. Through my journey, I’ve come to realize that the film industry isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about connection. It's about bringing stories to life that people can relate to, stories that reflect their struggles, their joys, and their resilience. And as I continue to pursue a career in this field, I know that I’m not just following my dreams I’m also carrying with me the lessons I learned from my mom's strength and the hope that storytelling can heal, just as it healed me. Winning this scholarship would not only help me continue pursuing my dream in the film industry but also honor the life and legacy of Charles B. Brazelton. His story reminds me that life is precious, and that we must all work to create a safer world where individuals can reach their full potential.

I will never forget the moment my mom, Latia, looked at me from her bed, surrounded by medication, and told me, "No matter what happens to me, I want you to excel in life. Never give up." She was battling stage 3 breast cancer, fighting for her life, but in that moment, she was more concerned about mine. She reminded me of how strong I am, how talented I am, and how much the world has to offer me. Even as she faced one of the hardest battles a person could endure, she was still lifting me up, still pushing me to be better, dream bigger, and never stop chasing my future. My mom is the most important person in my life. She has been a single parent for 18 years, working tirelessly to give me the best life she could. I’ve watched her sacrifice so much just to make sure I had opportunities she never had. She raised me to be independent, hardworking, and determined, and because of her, I know that there is nothing in this world I cannot achieve. She is the reason I wake up every day with a purpose. She is the reason I push through every challenge, knowing that I’m not just doing this for me I’m doing it for her too. As a first-generation college student, I carry not just my own dreams but the dreams of my family. It is an incredible feeling to know that I am breaking barriers and proving that higher education is possible, no matter where you come from. I want to set an example for my younger relatives and show them that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. My passion is film and production. I want to learn everything about how films are created, from behind the scenes to post-production. Storytelling is powerful, and I want to use it to inspire others, just like my mom has inspired me. I want to bring important stories to life, especially those that highlight resilience, strength, and perseverance just like my mom’s story. Winning this scholarship would mean everything to me. It would not just be a step forward in my education, but a step toward fulfilling my mom’s wishes also. It would be proof that no matter how hard life gets, I will always rise, and I will always push forward just like she taught me.