"Looking back, it is funny to think that my journey started with something as simple as watching movies".
When I was younger, I thought movies were almost like magic. Characters appeared on screen and stories happened, but I never thought much about the people behind them. That changed when I discovered behind-the-scenes videos. Seeing directors work with actors, crews build worlds, and people create something from nothing made me think: “I want to do that. I want to be part of that world.” Even before I understood filmmaking, I was already creating. I made up stories and filmed videos with whatever I had, even using my mom’s laptop camera. Looking back, I realize the passion was always there; I just had to discover where it could take me.
In 2023–2024, I joined Elisa Academy. I had followed the academy online for years, so finally becoming part of it was a meaningful experience. During that year, I grew as an actor and learned about performance, confidence, and self-expression. Acting also taught me things that I now use as a filmmaker. Understanding actors helps me as a director, while understanding filmmaking helps me as an actor.
When I started my audiovisual studies, I was still very unexperienced with professional filmmaking. I had used cameras before, but I didn't yet understand how to intentionally create an image or work professionally on a production. Being surrounded by people with more experience was challenging at first, but I decided to see it as an opportunity to learn. I asked questions, learned from classmates and teachers, and used every project as a chance to improve. I discovered that I am a fast learner and that I genuinely enjoy understanding every part of filmmaking.
My love for movies has always played a big role in this. I constantly watch new releases, old classics, theatre performances and everything in between. My teacher once jokingly called me a “walking film encyclopedia”, which I found funny but also appreciated. I love learning about the directors, actors, cinematographers, composers and everyone who contributes to a production.
One of the moments when I realized how much I had grown was during my first year, when we received an assignment with complete creative freedom. I decided to challenge myself by creating my short film 24 Hours independently. I developed the story, handled casting, worked with my actor through a self-tape, filmed the project and edited it. I especially enjoyed experimenting with sound design to create the atmosphere I wanted. When the film premiered at school, seeing people enjoy something I had created was unforgettable. My teachers even compared my work to Christopher Nolan, one of my favorite directors, which was an incredible compliment. 24 Hours later received recognition at the Spotlight Film Festival, where I received an Oscar award for beginner creators.
You can find my work HERE.
Coming from Curaçao has also shaped me as a creator. Colour, sound, and atmosphere are important parts of my storytelling and I would love to create films set in Curaçao, work with actors from the island and tell stories that deserve to be seen. Curaçao has so many cultures, experiences and stories that could become films. I believe Caribbean cinema has enormous potential, and I would love to contribute to its growth.
My experiences at Elisa Academy have also shown me the importance of collaboration. I have continued working with other academy students outside of the academy, including Sean Curtis Girigorie on a school short film, where we also acted together in one of my classmates’ projects. I have also helped Gian van Eiker with one of his projects. These experiences showed me that the Elisa Academy community goes beyond the lessons. Students support each other, share knowledge and grow together creatively.
Compared to where I started, I have already come a long way, but I know I am still at the beginning. I have completed the first part of my internship and will continue with the second half during my final year. Right now, I want to work on more productions, build my portfolio and gain more experience on set. I also join film projects and castings whenever I find opportunities because every experience can teach me something and help me build connections.
I am still discovering myself as a filmmaker.
For anyone starting their own creative journey, my advice is simple: just start. If you want to make a short film, make one. Write a story, create a character, grab your phone and ask a friend or family member to act. Don't wait until everything is perfect, because perfection can stop you from creating.
You don't need the best camera, biggest lights or most expensive equipment to tell a meaningful story. The equipment helps bring an idea to life, but the story is what makes people remember it. Everyone has a different starting point. Don't compare your beginning to someone else's progress. Keep creating, keep learning, and keep telling your stories.
Your story matters.
See you on set,
Former Student Diaries