My name is Elijah Jones, and I’m a 19-year-old filmmaker from Eastside Oklahoma City. Since I picked up a camera at 14, I’ve been dedicated to telling real stories from real people especially those whose voices often go unheard.

Now I’ve been accepted to Temple University Japan to study film and Japanese language. This program gives me the chance to grow as a filmmaker, connect with a new culture, and bring back experiences and skills that will inspire my work and my community.

But to get there, I need your help.