🎥 In the male-dominated world of filmmaking, where the industry often feels like a boys’ club, Julie Valentina is a breath of fresh air, proving that talent and passion know no gender. At just 22, Julie has not only carved out a name for herself but has also begun to pave the way for future female filmmakers. Her journey, from dropping out of university to winning prestigious contests and collaborating with major brands, is nothing short of inspiring.

From University to Filmmaking

Julie’s story begins with a leap of faith. After leaving university, where she initially pursued media studies, she threw herself into the world of photography and filmmaking. This bold move was met with skepticism—especially in an industry where women are still a minority. But Julie saw this as an advantage, a way to stand out in a sea of sameness. “Being a female in the industry never felt like a disadvantage,” Julie shares. “If anything, it made me more determined to make my mark.”

The Power of Role Models and Representation

One of the significant challenges Julie identifies is the lack of female role models in filmmaking. “In the travel filmmaking space, someone like Sam Kolder has inspired many, including myself,” she explains. But she also recognizes that aspiring filmmakers often look to role models who share their gender. This gap in representation is something Julie hopes to address, not just by excelling in her craft but by actively engaging with and mentoring other women in the field.

Navigating the Industry as a Young Female Filmmaker

Julie’s experiences on film sets around the world have been varied. While she’s often met with respect and professionalism, there have been moments that reminded her of the industry’s biases. “In some countries, women aren’t seen as equals on set,” she recalls. “One time, a local production team questioned why I was there. It was shocking but also a reminder of the work we still need to do.”

Yet, these experiences haven’t deterred her. If anything, they’ve made her more resilient. Julie directed a campaign in Panama at the age of 21, working with a team of mostly men, all older than her. “It was a learning experience, and it taught me the importance of confidence and competence on set,” she says.

Embracing Creativity and Community

For Julie, creativity is about dedicating oneself fully to the craft. She defines it as a “flow state,” where passion and focus come together without ego. This creative energy is something she channels into her work, whether it’s for clients or personal projects. “Creativity, for me, is about expressing my inner world through the inspiration I draw from the outer world,” she reflects.

Community has also played a crucial role in Julie’s journey. After leaving university, she immersed herself in a network of filmmakers who supported and challenged her. This sense of community is something she’s now passionate about building for others. Julie is launching events and trips designed to bring creatives together, with the first one already attracting over 150 participants.

Looking Ahead

Julie’s goals are evolving. While she once focused solely on landing bigger clients and more travel jobs, she’s now interested in giving back and building a legacy. “The big end goal is always going to be freedom,” she says. “But now, it’s about scaling my agency, helping others achieve their dreams, and continuing to grow as a filmmaker and entrepreneur.”

Julie Valentina’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and community. In a world where female filmmakers are still the minority, she stands as a beacon of hope, inspiration, and change.

🌟 Key Takeaways:

• Networking is crucial: Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you.
• Believe in yourself: Once you see something as possible, doors begin to open.
• Stay unique: Don’t just follow trends; create something that truly reflects your vision.