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Empowering Through Story: Karen Jeynes Shares Insights on Filmmaking, Diversity, and Community
Join award-winning screenwriter, producer, and director Karen Jeynes as she delves into the power of storytelling, the importance of diversity in film, and the inspiring community of Swifties. Get a sneak peek into her latest project and discover the magic behind bringing scripts to life. Don't miss out on this captivating journey through the world of filmmaking.

#FemaleFilmmakerFriday features award-winning Screenwriter, Producer and Director Karen Jeynes.

For me, filmmaking is all about the power of storytelling. There's nothing quite like the sensation of connecting with someone through a story, and being able to say, "I understand" or "I've been there too". As a country, we have an amazing legacy of storytelling, and I'm proud to be a part of that tradition. Whether I'm writing, directing, or producing, I always strive to tell compelling and impactful stories that resonate with audiences.

I'm always eager to learn new things and explore new ideas. Whether it's watching an old classic film or diving into a new area of study, I never stop trying to expand my horizons and engage with the world around me. For me, inspiration can come from anywhere, as long as I'm open to it.

As a woman in this industry, I'm passionate about bringing a more diverse range of voices and stories into the fold. We need to break down the old patterns of who has been traditionally allowed to tell stories in this medium, and open up more opportunities for women, LGBTQ+ people and people with disabilities. I'm proud to be a part of that movement, and I hope that my work can inspire future generations to push for greater inclusivity and diversity in film and television.

There have been so many amazing moments throughout my career, but some of my favourites are always when the actors come in and bring the script to life. That's when the magic really starts to happen, and I get to see the story come alive before my eyes. It's also incredibly rewarding to see the audience react to a show or film I've worked on - that's when I truly feel like I've made a difference.

The Swiftie community is amazing - so supportive and uplifting. I feel like I've found a true family there. The positivity and sense of community is really inspiring, and it's made a huge impact on me personally.

I'm currently in production for the Showmax series, Recipes for Love and Murder Season 2, which has been an absolute blast. I'm especially thrilled to be working with DOP Vicci Turpin again - she's an incredible talent and has brought so much to the project. Stay tuned for more details and sneak peeks!

Written By: Owethu Maseko