Kalia Love Jones is a 14-year old animator, director, and producer that is inspiring people from around the world to pursue their animation and filmmaking dreams. Her first animated short film, “The Power of Hope” is inspired by a Michelle Obama speech that tells the inspirational story of a young woman with big dreams. An aspiring architect feels helpless when her mother falls ill, but moved by the words of Michelle Obama, she finds the will to persevere and bring her dreams to life. “The Power of Hope” animated short film is written, directed and produced by Kalia Love Jones.
Kalia Love Jones is featured in national media and national TV media. Kalia Love Jones had a recent TV interview on The Today Show and during the TV interview former First Lady Michelle Obama said she was very moved by the talented 14-year old director Kalia Love Jones and her animated short film “The Power of Hope”. She also stated via Instagram and Facebook how proud she is of director Kalia Love Jones and of the “The Power of Hope” animated short film’s important message. We caught up with Kalia Love Jones to discuss “The Power of Hope” an animated short film qualifying for The Peabody Awards, working in Hollywood, and much more.
Your animated short film “The Power of Hope” has received praise from fans, film critics, the entertainment industry, celebrities, and former First Lady Michelle Obama. She took to Facebook and Instagram stating that your animated short film “The Power of Hope” is a beautiful film and is so inspiring to many people. How do you feel about that?
I’m really happy that so many people have embraced my film “The Power of Hope”. This is my very first film so I was nervous putting it out to the world to see. I think the coolest thing of all was when former First Lady Michelle Obama posted to her social media about my film. I’ve looked up to her for so long and just knowing she appreciated and was inspired by me was an amazing feeling.
“The Power of Hope” animated short film has qualified for the Peabody Awards. How does that make you feel?
The Peabody Awards is such a prestigious award and so many of the artists and creators who inspire me have been nominated in the past. To be nominated would be life-changing and absolutely incredible. Fingers crossed.
There is a ton of buzz on you as a rising star of animation, directing, and producing. Are you currently working in Hollywood?
I’m currently working on a few animated series projects that I created. I’m ready to work in Hollywood today and share my stories.
Are there any animation studios that you would like to work with?
I’m a huge fan of just about all animation companies so I’d love to work and collaborate with any of them. It’s more about working with a team that believes in me and my projects. From the great people in the field that I’ve met, they tell me it’s like a huge family environment. Working in animation is probably one of the greatest careers in the world.
What project or projects are you currently working on?
Currently, I’m working on three animated series projects. I can’t go into the details but I can tell you that they cover preschool age up to the teen demographic. I created the stories so that the entire family can enjoy them together and create a family dialogue. I’m super excited about these projects.
Anything else you would like for us to know?
I’d like to let the little girls and boys with big dreams out there know to never stop believing. I find my confidence in you and I hope you can find a little inspiration and confidence in me and my journey. Let’s make history!
For more information on “The Power of Hope” animated short film visit www.thepowerofhopefilm.com and follow @thepowerofhope2 on Twitter and @thepowerofhopefilm on Facebook and Instagram.
