CALLED TO CREATE
JENNIFER
masua-zola
filmmaker photographer graphic designer
Hi! I’m Jen and I’m a blah, blah, blah...
Long story short I make art, so that would make me an artist right? Film, photos, designs, songs, poems, the world of art fascinates me so here’s a neat little presentation of my loud mind and a few things I’m proud of.
ON SET OF ‘ECHELON’ (2024)
Bio
Originating from the lively streets of West London, Jennifer Masua-Zola is an up-and-coming director with a passion for storytelling that champions the underdogs. From a young age, Jennifer was captivated by art and film, even banging on the TV as a toddler because she wanted to physically be in the film. Her distinctive cinematic flair infuses her work with a unique perspective, exploring the depths of human experiences and redefining traditional storytelling boundaries. Jennifer's films are a testament to her love for exploring the complexities of the human experience, taking viewers on unforgettable journeys through the lives of those often overlooked and also capturing this essence in her photographs.
My approach
My work reflects our shared human experience, revealing our truths, vulnerabilities, and strengths. I am drawn to the underdogs, the hidden gems, the unsung heroes of everyday life. Their stories, filled with struggle and triumph, are the narratives I tell. I aim to reveal the universal truths that connect us all, with a lens that is both empathetic and unflinching.
Education
Studying film has been a transformative journey for me, shaping how I approach filmmaking. The courses and projects have honed my technical skills and deepened my love for storytelling. The academic route has not only enriched my creativity but also inspired me to push the boundaries of traditional filmmaking. This education has given me the tools to craft stories that truly connect with people.
NCFE Award: Work in the Film Industry BFI | London Film Academy |
Bachelor of Arts in Image Arts: Film Toronto Metropolitan University |
Bachelor of Arts in Filmmaking Manchester Metropolitan University First Class Honours |
Film
2019
The Interview
When in search for some hard hitting truths, an eager journalist flies too close to the sun as she seeks for answers.
2019
Red Herring
An overprotective friend goes to extreme measure when warding off a no-good boyfriend while struggling to conceal some secrets herself.
2022
Table for Two
A man in denial labours tirelessly in the kitchen in hopes of soothing the pain of his breakup by recreating a dish that his past lover would make him.
2023
Projecting
Eager to show off her new projector, a meek teen invites her crush over for a movie night but is shocked when the machine begins to display her thoughts as scenes instead.
2024
Puppy Love
A split couple’s shared dog becomes the unexpected catalyst for reigniting their love and giving their relationship a second chance.
2024
Echelon (Coming Soon)
While caring for her ill mother, an obsessive ballerina fights for her spot at the top within a prejudiced ballet company.
Echelon
“Echelon’ is the first major short film I’ve worked on and it premiered on June 17th 2024 as a part of the ‘In Motion’ screening held by the ‘Deadcat Collective’, a group of upcoming filmmakers from SODA (School of Digital Arts).
Solana, the only black ballerina in her company, grapples with the demanding world of dance while supporting her mother through a health challenge. A series of poignant moments unfold, from Solana’s meticulous pointe shoe preparations to her rigorous ballet training, alongside her mum's care routine. As she faces the anticipation of a crucial audition and her mother's next hospital appointment scheduled for the same day, Solana’s resilience is tested.
Crew:
Writer-Director : Jennifer Masua-Zola
Producer : Sarah Sanches
Editor : Rogerio Ferreira
Sound Designer : Luke Griffiths
Cinematographer : Jack Sale
Cast:
Rachael Ridley as Solana
Oxa Hazel as Michelle
Echelon explores the delicate balance between pursuing ones dreams and the sacrifice it is paired with.
The film swept a total of 7 awards : Best Narrative, Best Screenplay, Best Editing, Best Cinematography, Best Producer, Alumni Award and the Audience Choice Award.
Pictured : Jennifer Masua-Zola (Writer-Director), Sarah Sanches (Producer) and Rogerio Ferreria (Editor).
Photography
@zolazeyez
I love capturing candid, in-the-moment photography with a vibrant, saturated style. This approach helps me emulate the fondness and nostalgia of cherished memories, making each photo feel like a vivid recollection of a special moment
Find the rest of my photos on Instagram, @zolazeyez.
I love capturing candid, in-the-moment photography with a vibrant, saturated style to emulate the fondness and nostalgia of memories. I enjoy documenting these moments in a variety of settings, from the bustling streets and lively clubs to energetic parties and even concerts. Each photo aims to preserve the unique atmosphere and emotion of the moment, making them feel like vivid recollections of special times.
Graphic Design
@zolagraphics
As a teenager, I taught myself graphic design, spending countless hours experimenting and learning online. During the 2020 lockdown, I took the leap into freelancing, which quickly grew into my own business, Zola Graphics. It’s been an incredible journey turning my passion into a thriving venture, helping clients bring their creative visions to life.
Deadcat Collective
I had the pleasure of applying my graphic design skills to the ‘Deadcat Collective’, a group of emerging filmmakers from the School of Digital Arts (SODA) at Manchester Metropolitan University. My contributions included designing the logo and the magazine, which featured all the films across dedicated two-page spreads.
Follow @deadcat__collective on Instagram for updates.
Find the rest of my designs on Instagram, @zolagraphics
Thank You
Contact
Jennifer Masua-Zola
jmasuazola@gmail.com
@zolazeyez