Film Connection student Shameka Cole directs film video for Tracy T!

Just months into her Film Connection experience, student extern Shameka Cole is already making many of her long-term dreams come to life—most notably, the opportunity to direct her first film video in Atlanta, GA, for none other than Maybach Film Group hip-hop artist Tracy T!

Hailing from New York, Shameka moved to Atlanta in 2007 and found herself in the midst of a blossoming community of creative, like-minded people. Directing film videos has been a dream of Shameka’s all her life. From a very early age, she says when she would hear film she could envision every detail of what the film video could look like. When she enrolled in the Film Connection this spring and began her externship at Radiant3 Productions in Atlanta, little did she know the many opportunities that were in store for her nor how quickly her dream would start to take shape.

“I love it. I’ve never been through a program, even in college, that has opened up so many doors for me.” says Shameka.

The film video with Tracy T was a great success. Not only did Shameka get to hone her practical experience, she also made other connections as well! Reality TV star Mama Dee was present during the shoot. She was so impressed with Shameka’s work that she approached her and asked if she might be interested in shooting another film video for her!

“We exchanged business cards and made a connection,” says Shameka. “It was a great experience.”

In addition to fulfilling her dream of becoming a film video director, Shameka also aspires to be a screenwriter. She is currently collaborating with screenwriter Mark Gibson on a feature-length thriller in the vein of TV series Revenge. But that’s not all! Shameka also has the long-term goal of directing her own feature films. Through the Film Connection, Shameka Cole continues to make great strides toward transforming these dreams into reality.

Congratulations, Shameka!