Angel St James
Tell us a little about your journey and how you became involved with The Pinnacle Foundation.
I have had the pleasure of receiving essential Pinnacle support over two university degrees now — as I pursue my deep passion for film and hone my screenwriting skills. Pinnacle has opened the door to my future, giving me opportunities I couldn’t dream of accessing otherwise. The Pinnacle Foundation is helping me achieve my dream of making a difference in young LGBTIQ+ lives through crucial onscreen representation.
What have you gained from being part of the Pinnacle program so far?
Pinnacle has given me a much-needed sense of community and belonging, ensuring that I know I’m not alone. This has been unbelievably transformative and comforting, especially during the unprecedented struggles 2020 has brought.
This scholarship lets me feel like a key part of an up and coming queer generation determined to make a difference for future generations.
What has your experience with your mentor been like?
My mentor experience has been such a valuable resource, on both a personal and professional level. I truly believe that you can’t be what can’t see — so having direct access to a queer woman thriving in my niche field is constantly inspiring and motivating. It shows me the limitless possibilities for my life.
What advice would you give to a young person who is thinking about applying for The Pinnacle Foundation Scholarship Program?
It might be cliché (but it’s said all the time for a reason!) — the best advice is to just do it! You just never know what could happen unless you take a leap of faith and try. I took a chance on believing in myself and backing myself and it has paid off a million times over. Put yourself out there, you never know who you’ll meet, the opportunities you’ll gain, or the person you will blossom into.
Isabella (Izzy) Kotasek
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