Heights High Student Wins Film Award
Dec. 7, 2016 -- Senior Ina Keys-Harris is a budding film maker who already has experience making movies and recently won a 2016 MyCom Youth Voice Award on November 17.
Ina is part of a five girl team that produced the movie East Cleveland: A Tale of Two Cities.
The five teens were guided by filmmaker Konnie Peroune who partnered with the Greater Cleveland Urban Film Festival, the East Cleveland Public Library and United Black Fund.
The goal of the project was to unveil the story of East Cleveland through the eyes of children. The film included the history of Cleveland and interviews with children about their ideas for the city.
Ina began as a key member of the group because of her experience with digital cameras. “I have always liked being in front and behind the camera,” said Ina. “For several years, I have created family Christmas videos that are a year-end culmination and include photos, music and videos,” she continued.
The teen film making crew interviewed students at the East Cleveland Neighborhood Freedom School and learned some things from the younger students. “They were more positive about things than I thought they would be, said Ina. “One young student told us she had a message for the Mayor. She said ‘If you need anything, I’m here to help.’”
Ina found the process to be a learning experience. “I learned so much! How to edit, shoot, interview and how to tell a story.”
At Heights High, she is in the TV Production class. Her teacher, Cynthia Booker said "Ms. Keys is a determined and aspiring young filmmaker. She exhibits focus and drive in class, understanding that the skills she's learning can help build her portfolio."
Next year, she plans to major in sociology and digital film making and is applying to East Michigan University, Ohio University and Central State.
“I love showing my creativity through movies. I want to build up my skills so I can show my creativity to millions of people and change lives,” she said,
The MyCom Voice Awards honors Cuyahoga County residents, leaders and organizations who support young people in Greater Cleveland.