On a flight from Chicago to Los Angeles in 2023, I met and befriended a professional who worked in the animation and film industry for companies such as Disney and Netflix.

When I arrived home I felt very inspired to learn more about the industry, and by coincidence stumbled upon the opportunity to join X in a Box & Pixar Animation Studios’ Story Xperiential program. The rest was history!

I spent nine weeks learning about the art of storytelling and refined illustrations from Pixar experts - an experience many would only dream of. By the end, I had created my very own short story, complete with my own illustrations.

This was such an incredible experience. I met extremely talented people and saw their work develop and flourish throughout the course. I made friendships with animators, storytellers and others from all around the world. And above all, I felt challenged to try something new - and it tested me - but I’m so happy I did it. I learnt a lot about myself and I’m really proud of what we all achieved.