We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Catri Estime a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Catri, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you tell us the backstory behind how you came up with the idea?
For years I was still circling around, trying to figure out what and who I wanted to be. The only thing that I knew was that I had a telent; a creative writing talent. So as the years went on and I explored many different paths, I wrote, any and everything, from poems, to storys, I wrote. It was not until the pandemic when it finally hit me. I have all of this talent that I want the world to see. There it was clear as day. I wanted the world to see my creative abilities, and what better way to do that than to put my work on a screen. That was when I realized that I wanted to write, produce and direct my own shows and films. I was not sure why it took me this long to acknowledge that but when I won a calendar contest for writing a story about a library and a few kids, I should have known, when I was asked to host, produce and perform my own written poem at an annual showcase, I should have known, or even when I volunteered to help children write and publish their own books, I should have known that I was and am extremely talented. This forced me to try to create a path towards film production, so I chose to publish books to at least get my name out there. Innocence Gone and the Perfect Family Vacation, both written and published by Catri Stokes. Innocence Gone is my baby and it was an opportunity for people to hear about the many experiences that women all over go through. The Perfect Family Vacation I actually wrote when I was just nine years old, but only just recently published it. It is a children’s book. I knew that I would succeed by getting my name out there and I am looking forward to working on more projects.
Catri, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I started writing when I was only nine years old. The first time I ever picked up a pencil and pen, I fell in love. Over years I I enhanced my craft and became proud to label myself as a writer and now author. I’m proud that I pushed myself to publish. The second book I published was the first story that I have ever written back in fifth I grade. I feel what separates myself from others is that I do not only focus on one specific form of writing. I write fiction, non fiction, poetry and I have certifications in screenwriting. I want people to know that I only plan to get better and hope they see my work on the big screen some day.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
The ultimate goal is to create work that everyone can see across the world. I want to see the “Written By” with my name to follow on a screen. And I am going to continue to push myself until I reach that goal.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
Connections. Making connections is key for any business relationship, career or development. You will never know who knows someone that can get you through the next set of doors that you have to walk through or the next hurdles that you have stacked against you. Building these connections is pivotal.
Contact Info: