Support Karen Barton at AFI (Film School)

This Fall, I will begin an MFA program in Screenwriting at the American Film Institute (AFI) Conservatory in Los Angeles. It has been called “the Juilliard of film schools.” I began teaching myself how to write screenplays when I was 17 and becoming a filmmaker has been a dream ever since. I am hoping to join the small, yet growing number of Black screenwriters who are telling our stories and also help raise up future generations of storytellers.

Only 7% of screenwriters are Black. Only 7% of screenwriters are women of color. (WGAW report)

In 2020, only 2% of writers for theatrical or streaming films were Black women. (UCLA report)

I have had a very interesting and long journey to get to this chapter of my life. I graduated from the University of Houston with a BA in Communication - Media Production with the goal of working in TV or film, yet I graduated during the 2008 recession, which eventually propelled me into libraries--public, academic, and medical. Lucky for me, this career benefitted my writing by allowing me to be surrounded by countless stories and by allowing me to meet characters from all walks of life who only fueled my desire to bring new voices to the screen--one of the most powerful mediums in the world. Now, as I carry a range of experience and a more mature lens in which I see the world, I feel that this is an optimal time for me to pursue my dream of becoming a filmmaker. Notable AFI alumni include Scott Frank (The Queen’s Gambit), Patty Jenkins (Wonder Woman), and Melina Matsoukas (Queen & Slim), so in this program, I know that I will receive a stellar education and I hope to make you all proud as I strive to use TV and film to educate and empower others!

I have been given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend AFI and really need your support! I will be in a very intensive, two-year program that will not allow me to work since fellows will have to be available seven days a week for classes, seminars, meetings, writing, filming, etc. from morning to night. For this reason, I am asking for help with room and board as I am still in need of $45k. Also, tuition is $128k.       

Please know that anything will help. Thank you and PLEASE share to help me reach my goal.