Today we’d like to introduce you to Shaquille Roberts
Hi Shaquille, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Growing up in Englewood, one of Chicago’s toughest neighborhoods, writing became my a safe place for me. It began with short stories in my childhood. Then, in high school, winning a writing contest sponsored by Walgreens introduced me to TrueStar Magazine, a magazine written by teens, for teens. I be gan writing for TrueStar Magazine and TheMash newspaper, a newspaper under the Chicago Tribune for teens.
After graduating, I felt a pull toward a different kind of writing inspired by a movie night with my brother and cousins watching “The Dark Knight”. I was very enticed by the film but did not consider filmmaking until I saw a commercial for the film program at the Illinois Institute of Art. There, I delved into every aspect of filmmaking, from pre-production to post.
Despite graduating, breaking into the industry was difficult. Determined, and led by God, I took matters into my own hands and began producing my own films. One project led to another, and soon I found myself carving out a path as an independent filmmaker – a journey I never anticipated but one that feels like second nature now.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Absolutely not! This not a path I chose, but one that has chosen me. My biggest personal struggle was believing in myself. Many times, independent filmmakers don’t get the exposure, funding, shine, they deserve, so you constantly have to validate yourself and believe in what you are creating.
Another struggle is funding, having to find creative ways to pay for this art.
It’s very fun and creative to make a film, but as an independent filmmaker, it is very far from easy.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about The PYNC Project?
The PYNC Project is a non-profit organization I started to provide resources for women of color in film and media. We offer training, networking events, and financial resources for women of color and allies. We understand the challenges and systemic barriers faced by women of color and are committed to providing support to address them. Our training, development, networking opportunities, and financial support initiatives are designed to foster an inclusive and equitable industry.
As an independent filmmaker, I know how tough the industry can be and community is a must. Network is a must. I wanted to be a solution to the problems we have. Ultimately, we just want to create and tell stories, it shouldn’t be as difficult as it is.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pyncstudios.com/pyncproject
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pyncstudios
- Other: https://tubitv.com/series/300000365/the-other-wife?start=true
