Renae to study film in New York

Kia ora koutou,

On a hope & a dream I've managed to get the majority of the funding I need to study film at the New York Film Academy for 8 weeks. I'm so grateful to the NZ Film Commission & all my funders for this opportunity. I'm so grateful to my hapu, Ngati Whakaue Education Endowment Trust for the majority of my funding & the NZ Film Commission for the Professional Development Award. 

Over the past 7 years I've contributed as a writer & director in theatre & film & told stories that I believe needed telling. I've addressed issues like solo motherhood, child abuse, poverty, sexual abuse, colonization & deculturalization in my works.

Often these subjects have had a profound impact on my audiences & I've been privileged to see first-hand in Canada the impact my short film Butterfly had on a fellow audience member.

This is the reason why I make work. Storytelling is such a powerful tool that allows people to examine things from the mind, soul, spirit, emotions & tinana.

I want to continue doing this work & do it on a larger scale. In a nutshell, I want to make feature films!!! I am currently researching & writing my film and I've recognized the need for me to develop my craft skills as a Director.

So that's where the NY Film Academy comes in. I'm going to spend 2 months going hard, learning & making films. After a lot of hard work I'm only a little bit short so if you can donate a little I would be so grateful.

I look forward to letting you all know how I go. Feel free to get in touch with me on Facebook if you have any questions.

Arohanui,
Renae x