Student Spotlight: Tré StathamTurns a Passion for Storytelling Into a Future in Filmmaking
For Tré Statham. Filmmaking is more than a career goal—it’s a way to explore ideas, connect with others, and tell stories that matter. As a Film and Media major with a minor in the production track through the Georgia Film Academy, Tré is building the skills and creative vision needed for a promising future in screenwriting and digital filmmaking. After earning a bachelor’s degree, Tré] plans to pursue an M.F.A. in digital filmmaking at Georgia State University, continue making short films, and eventually teach film classes to inspire emerging filmmakers.
The Foundation’s screenwriting mentorship program with Ria Sardana transformed Tré’s approach to writing. Through the program, Tré rediscovered a love for screenwriting, learned to embrace experimentation over perfectionism, and now writes daily. Key lessons included exploring alternate dialogue, strengthening themes throughout the story, and understanding character motivation—especially through a breakthrough moment when Ria asked, “What does he want?” about the character Jabari. The mentorship also provided invaluable industry insight through conversations with professionals like producer Anni Weisband. As a result, Tré ‘s confidence as a screenwriter has grown significantly, and a future in filmmaking now feels tangible and within reach.
BACK TO SCHOOL SCREENPLAY WRITING CONTEST (2026–2027)
The Dr. Barbra Seniors Harkins Foundation believes our strength is shown not only through the words we stand by, but through the actions behind our initiatives. Since launching in 2000, the Foundation has focused on creating opportunities that help young people grow, connect, and succeed. The Back to School Screenplay Writing Contest (2026–2027) continues that mission by inviting teens to use their voices, imagination, and storytelling skills to create something meaningful—and exciting.
Have you ever watched a movie and thought, “You know what would make this better?” Now is your chance to write the film you wish existed. The contest is open to teens ages 11–17, and the Foundation wants to read your stories—whether they’re scary, romantic, dramatic, imaginative, funny, or totally original. One writer. One story. Three winners. The top three finalists will have the opportunity to win Amazon Fire Tablets (8GB) to keep writing and developing their award-winning scripts. For more information and to enter the Contest. Visit the Foundation’s Website.
Support the Foundation’s GivingTuesday This November: Fueling Summer Filmmaking & Mentorship
This November on GivingTuesday, our community has the opportunity to come together and support the Dr. Barbara Seniors Harkins Foundation and the students who benefit from its life-changing work. GivingTuesday is a global day of generosity, and every gift—big or small—helps strengthen programs that empower youth through education, creativity, and real-world guidance. When you donate, you’re not just contributing to a cause—you’re investing in young voices and helping them gain access to experiences that can shape their futures.
Your GivingTuesday support directly benefits the Foundation’s Summer Filmmaking and Mentorship Program, where students learn storytelling, scriptwriting, camera skills, editing, and production teamwork while being guided by mentors who encourage confidence and leadership. This program gives young people a safe, inspiring space to build technical skills and explore careers in media—while also learning responsibility, collaboration, and communication. This November, consider making a donation, sharing the campaign, or encouraging others to get involved—because when we support student creators, we help them turn ideas into stories, and stories into opportunities.
Stay Tuned for Details Starting the First Week of November
Foundation: Save The Date Events:
Online Film Screening, The Amazing Digital Circus: The Last Act : October 3, 2026:
Online Film Workshop Horror Film Directors: October 3, 2026
Scriptwriting Contest Deadline: October 30, 2026
Support Us
The foundation accepts donations throughout the year for all of its programs. If you would like to donate to the foundation, please visit our website at https://barbaraseniorsharkinsfoundation.org and click “Support Us” in the top right corner.
