Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Meschida Philip. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Meschida thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you walk us through some of the key steps that allowed you move beyond an idea and actually launch?
Originating from a desire to provide a platform for local creatives, the 12°N, 61°W Grenada Film Festival, also known as the 1261 Film Festival, was born – aimed to cultivate a profound appreciation for Grenadian and Caribbean narratives, celebrating the diversity inherent in global storytelling.
However, turning this vision into reality proved challenging. The local film industry faced obstacles, including a shortage of resources, minimal government prioritization, and the absence of a vibrant film community. Undeterred, the effort to establish the Grenada Film Festival embraced a grassroots and strategic approach, navigating uncharted terrain and overcoming challenges with unwavering determination.
To execute this vision, I invested seed money, enlisted volunteer support from my industry networks in Grenada, the region, and America, and initiated an open call for films from the Caribbean, Latin America, and the African diaspora. We aimed to build a diverse catalog of positive films resonating with our target audiences.
Research into the local cultural landscape revealed gaps, prompting us to focus on key strategic priorities. These included nurturing community support, formulating funding solutions through local and international partnerships, and effectively communicating the festival’s broader cultural, tourism, and economic benefits in Grenada. Adaptability became crucial as unforeseen challenges arose, such as logistical issues, economic shifts, and the global pandemic. The pillars of flexibility and an unwavering commitment to forging a cinematic legacy in Grenada remained paramount.
Six years on, the 1261 Grenada Film Festival has evolved and become a globally recognized brand deeply interwoven with Grenada’s cultural and creative fabric. Serving as a crucial creative bridge, it transcends the mere showcasing of films, acting as a platform that nurtures connections among local and international filmmakers and industry professionals. This unique approach not only fosters collaboration and co-production but also significantly contributes to the flourishing growth of Grenada’s film landscape. Guided by my leadership, the festival is expanding its footprint, effectively representing the creative sector of Grenada and its diaspora. This strategic growth solidifies Grenada’s role in advancing cultural tourism and showcasing its vibrant artistic expressions on the global stage, including prestigious events such as Pavillon Afriques Marche du Film – Festival des Cannes.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist extends beyond mere creation. It lies in the enriching experience of innovation and the profound sense of freedom. This freedom empowers me to challenge norms, disrupt conventional narratives, and contribute to the rich tapestry of human and cultural experiences. As a creative, my work assumes a broader purpose by delving into the documentation of present-day experiences, leaving behind a legacy that can potentially shape the future.
Conversely, the personal rewards of work-related travel are substantial, acting as a catalyst for my growth as an artist. This frequently entails connecting with fellow creatives both regionally and internationally, expanding my professional network, gaining insights into diverse cultures through firsthand experiences, breaking barriers, and finding inspiration. All the while, I share my own experiences and the rich cultures of Grenada and the Caribbean with others.
An illustrative instance is my recent visit to Switzerland. Participating in the first cohort of Caribbean and Latin American directors at the Locarno Film Festival Open-Door Program in Switzerland was a profoundly rewarding experience. Beyond showcasing “Scars of Our Mother’s Dreams” to an eager European audience, the true reward lay in the connections forged and exposure gained. Engaging with fellow filmmakers and industry professionals broadened my network, offering fresh perspectives that enriched my creative process.
The enthusiastic reception in Switzerland underscored a genuine interest in Caribbean stories, highlighting the universal aspects of our shared human experiences. This experience reinforced the power of storytelling to foster understanding and create connections across diverse backgrounds. It reminded me of the importance of cultural representation in the global cinematic landscape and fueled my commitment to continue contributing meaningful narratives to a more inclusive and interconnected world.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
Navigating the realms of filmmaking and festival direction requires discipline, adaptability, and resilience. The journey, lacking structured blueprints, is filled with uncertainties, from financial challenges to maintaining a work-life balance.
Contrary to the media portrayal of industry glamour, both pursuits demand meticulous planning and navigating a complex web of talents and audience development, coupled with a high threshold for rejection. The personal and emotional investment is profound, and I approach both realms with immense focus, aspiring to shape my lifestyle.
Managing irregular incomes and project-based earnings is a shared experience for creatives and festival directors, grappling with budget intricacies and sponsorship challenges. Despite economic uncertainties, a strategic approach involves adapting traditional financial models for sustainability—a crucial yet often overlooked aspect.
Deviation from the conventional 9-to-5 schedule may seem unconventional. However, I alternate between concentrated project development and organization, ensuring a built-in work-life balance on both fronts. While the intricate journey might challenge non-creatives’ understanding, it remains compelling, impactful, and fulfilling.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.1261filmfestival.com
- Instagram: @1261filmfestival or @meschidaphilip
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1261filmfestival
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meschidaphilip or https://www.linkedin.com/in/1261filmfestival
- Youtube: @1261FilmFestival
Image Credits
sosavage360, rcgmediavision