Sarah Servillas

From a young age, I have been drawn to storytelling that connects people, preserves memories, and amplifies voices. Whether through creating heartfelt family films that bring loved ones to tears, leading youth mentorship programs, or producing original music with minimal resources, my passion has always been to capture the human experience in its most honest and impactful form.

As a student of Anthropology and Political Studies, I approach storytelling with a deep respect for culture, history, and ethical representation. My first documentary—focused on the impact of tourism, food sovereignty, and land dispossession in Maui—stems from a realization that the stories of local communities deserve to be told with care, integrity, and nuance. While I may not have formal filmmaking training, I have spent years honing my ability to craft meaningful narratives, engage with diverse communities, and create compelling visuals and soundscapes with limited resources.

Beyond filmmaking, I have dedicated three years to mentoring youth, fostering safe spaces for teenagers to be heard, encouraged, and supported. Through weekly gatherings, music, and storytelling, I have seen firsthand how narratives shape identity, strengthen communities, and provide hope—a lesson that carries into my approach as an emerging filmmaker.

I believe that powerful stories don’t require the biggest budgets or the most advanced equipment; they require heart, integrity, and a commitment to truth. My goal is to create films that spark conversation, challenge perspectives, and honor the people whose lives they represent. With this documentary, I hope to bridge personal experience with broader social realities, using film as a medium for awareness, advocacy, and change.

• Youth Group Leader (3 Years) – Serve as a mentor and role model for teenagers, fostering a supportive and welcoming environment.
• Weekly Gatherings & Relationship Building – Organize and lead Friday night youth group sessions, ensuring a safe space for connection, faith, and personal growth.
• Mentorship & Emotional Support – Provide guidance and encouragement to teens, reinforcing that they are seen, heard, and supported during challenging life stages.
• Music & Worship Leadership – Prepare and perform worship songs on guitar, supplying lyric sheets to encourage engagement and reflection.
• Lesson Facilitation & Group Discussions – Work alongside young adult leaders to introduce Bible-based lessons, recently incorporating small group discussions for deeper conversations.
• Event Planning & Holiday Celebrations – Decorate for holidays, organize themed gatherings, and host special events with extra games, snacks, and activities to create meaningful traditions.
• Community & Team Building Activities – Foster friendships through interactive games, fire pit nights, and social gatherings, ensuring youth feel a sense of belonging.
• Guiding Teens Through Transitions – Support and celebrate youth as they move on to new life stages, including sending them off to college with encouragement and care.