Meet Melanie Quiroz (St. Jean Baptiste HS, SSP '24), who was recently accepted into the prestigious Ghetto Film School in recognition of her original short film (The Hands That Feed Us). The Ghetto Film School is the gateway to top universities and careers in the creative industries. This is an incredible achievement and a testament to her talent and hard work. Best wishes as she embarks on this exciting journey!
Can you talk a little bit about your original short film and what it is about?
“My original short film is about a young Mexican girl who gets forced to wander the streets and gets lured into danger by a group of teenage boys. She then has to seek safety from a grumpy and rude Mexican goods shop owner.”
How did the film come about and what was your inspiration?
“This story came about after I was much reflection on the things that I find most valuable around me, one of the things that came up was the kind-hearted Mexican store owners/street vendors in my neighborhood who despite their outer appearance, do their very best to provide for those who need a hand.”
What are you looking forward to at the Ghetto Film School?
“The thing I'm looking forward to the most in The Ghetto Film School is creating new valuable relationships that will help develop my knowledge and understanding of this art form that I love so dearly. My experience thus far has been overwhelmingly positive, and I've been experiencing nothing but support. It feels amazing to finally have a space in which my films are truly mine.”
About The Ghetto Film School: Ghetto Film School (GFS) is an award-winning nonprofit founded in 2000 to educate, develop, and celebrate the next generation of great storytellers. With locations in New York City, Los Angeles, and London, GFS equips students for top universities and careers in the creative industries through two tracks: an introductory education program for high school students and early career support for alumni and young professionals. GFS annually serves over 8,000 individuals, 14-34 years of age. Learn more: https://www.ghettofilm.org/about-us
