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How long have you been writing and what made you want to write in the first place?
I’ve always enjoyed writing and reading growing up. I was the cousin that escaped to a bedroom to read a book during family gatherings! I first discovered and fell in love with screenwriting during my junior year in high school thanks to the encouragement of my drama teacher who told me about the Scriptwriters Network Program. I became immediately fascinated with this exciting way to tell stories. However, it wasn’t until I saw “Antwone Fisher” that I knew this was my life purpose. I felt a genuine connection to Antwone’s journey in that film, and I felt that If I could tell stories that resonate with people in the same way that I felt watching that film, then I would truly be making an impact during my life. Going on to major in screenwriting in college further solidified that I knew this is what I was born to do.
What genre do you prefer to write in? What draws you to that genre?
I love drama — that is, I love to write drama, not necessarily live with drama, but it can be hard to avoid the latter at times! When people watch TV and films they look to find similarities with the characters they see on screen, and most people struggle with different challenges throughout their life. I like drama because it can generate one of the most intimate connections with people. I also like dramedies for this same reason, and the opportunity to add some comedic relief in there is always fun!
Tell us three things you're currently digging.
One of my favorite shows, Queen Sugar is finally coming back for season 5 on Feb. 16 so I will definitely be tuning in to that. I’m hoping for joy for Charley this season! I also just started listening to the narrative podcast, Bronzeville. It’s a few years old (2017) but when I wanted to explore more narrative podcasts this came up in my searches and I am loving it so far. I also just started reading Allegedly by Tiffany Jackson which comes highly recommended in one of my book groups. It’s about this teenage girl convicted of murder, but maybe... she’s innocent? I’ll have to keep reading to find out!
What interested you about the Roadmap Diversity Initiative?
I initially had not heard of Roadmap Writers prior to applying, and after learning more about it seemed like a great opportunity for me to continue to develop as a writer. I am excited for the Pitch Prep Program because giving verbal pitches is definitely something I don’t think you should just jump into unprepared, so having the opportunity to really refine my pitch and have a space to practice and get feedback is an invaluable opportunity. After having gone through the interview and learning more about Roadmap Writers, I like how their goal is to really fill the knowledge gap from being a screenwriting student (self-taught or through college) to becoming a screenwriting professional.
Where can we find you?
You can find me on Instagram @candacedwrites. I’m also on Twitter @candacedwrites and if you're lucky you can catch my one tweet a month! (I’ll do better.)