Sho's Screenwriting Dreams

Shonnese was a creative kid who dreamed of being a film writer. She was always interested in movies and the arts, learning to play the violin, piano and percussion before graduating high school. While she earned a degree in Radio, Television and Motion Pictures from UNC Chapel Hill, her family’s influence won out, leading her to a law degree and success as a divorce attorney. After years of ups and downs in her professional life, Shonnese has decided to chase her dream again. She has done the work: honing her craft, working late nights, taking classes. That hard work is bearing fruit. Shonnese has been accepted to the competitive UCLA Professional Program in Screenwriting .

In a moment where a more diverse set of voices are getting mainstream platforms, Shonnese’s dream is more relevant than ever. Black art, movies and television shows are readily accessible in a way they’ve never been. At the same time, we’re experiencing an uprising of violent rhetoric towards communities that differ from the norm. Art has always been part of how we reimagine a new, better world. Black art has never before been so necessary and a multiplicity of black voices, black visions has never before been so possible.

Ava says it is never too late. Shonda showed us what can happen when a black woman is allowed to create. Lena Waithe says that, "The things that make us different—those are our superpowers." 

Writing art that shows the best of what is possible for all of us  is Sho's superpower. 

It is in this moment that we should collectively support black artists’ visions and affirm their purpose: to write for every person who took the long way towards achieving their dreams, and to make GOOD art for underrepresented communities and marginalized voices. Help us send Sho on her way. Your contribution will pay Sho’s tuition, books, and equipment for the UCLA Professional Program in Screenwriting.