Traditional summer camps typically include academic topics and extracurricular activities that reflect the school syllabus. Camp Reel offers a similar programme but focuses on a unique subject area that is not yet popular among kids – film and television production. The camp is the brainchild of Shawneil Bailey-Gordon, founder and director of Camp Reel and CEO of Zarabelle Limited. Camp Reel caters to children ages five to 11 and aims to inspire and encourage the next generation of TV and film stars. Yello caught up with Shawneil to learn more about the summer camp and what kids can expect.

Please tell us about Zarabelle Limited.

I started Zarabelle in 2012 while I was in college with two business partners. Initially, we were a modelling agency but pivoted to becoming a talent agency. We kept the company’s name. However, my business partners moved on to different industries, and I have operated the company since 2016.

Zarabelle Limited is a talent and booking agency providing production support services to the TV and film industry. We primarily offer commercial and voice talent for advertisements, films, etc. We’ve been in media production for approximately 11 years.

What inspired you to do Camp Reel at this time?

I’ve had the idea to do this summer camp for a few years. My talent database has over 800 people, and many parents would constantly ask about creative activities. I thought about doing it in early 2019, but then we started to have cases of COVID-19 in Jamaica, and the pandemic hit. We had never experienced a pandemic before, so our goal was survival. In 2021, we tried to get back on track, and in 2022, I decided we needed time to plan and prepare. This year, I decided to do it because it’s been my long-term goal.

I was inspired to do the camp because when I was growing up, I didn’t see many dark-skinned people who looked like me on television, even in Jamaica. As a child, I often dreamed of being in a television advertisement. I saw a Claro (telecommunications company) advertisement that featured a diverse group of children (dark-skinned and light-skinned), which was inspiring.

Interestingly, when we pivoted to television and film, some people who joined our agency were doubtful that they would be on television because they were dark-skinned. So, we decided to focus mainly on having dark-skinned talents to create more diversity and representation in film and television.

In the past, I worked as a production assistant on many projects, allowing me to understand the industry better. The work behind the scenes that went into creating a television advertisement impressed me, especially knowing I was involved. I want Camp Reel to connect with the kids in the same way. I want them to understand the industry and to know that working in it is attainable. In Jamaica, most people find the film and television industry elusive unless they know someone directly involved with these projects. My goal is to change that.

Why did you call it Camp Reel?

I like puns! The name embodies what the camp is about. The word reel is linked to TV and film (like a film reel), and the other aspect is them doing practical things that reflect what happens on a film or TV set. We have designed the sessions to be fun and engaging for the kids to have an enjoyable learning experience.

What are some of the sessions that are on the roster for Camp Reel?

One of the sessions is an introduction to filmmaking. This ‘playshop’ will introduce the kids to various job positions in film, like sound, directing, prop making, food styling, costume design, etc. We did a TV advertisement a while back, and half of the food on the table was unreal. The parents and kids were shocked. So, even if they do not pursue a career in film when they get older, the kids will have an idea of the various functions and how things work on a TV or film set. Other sessions include directing, prop making, story writing, animation, acting, filmmaking, etc.

What is the main goal you wish to accomplish?

The idea is to create a new generation of TV and film superstars. So many other industries have representation – lawyers, doctors, teachers, etc. I want kids to know that creative industries have other options they can pursue. So, if someone finds me online in 10 years, comes up to me on a set one day, or returns to volunteer at the camp and says that they attended the camp and became inspired to work in the industry, I would have accomplished my goal.

Who are some of the presenters that will be at Camp Reel?

I wanted to introduce the kids to various job roles in the industry because representation is crucial. One of our presenters (Reel Crew), Renee Patrick, is an assistant camera. It means a lot to have her as many of our registrants are girls, and Renee is one of the few women doing this job presently. We have Kurt Wright (director), Neisha Yen-Jones (actress), Mykal Cushnie (editor), Kevin Jackson (screenwriter), Jonathan Roberts (animation producer), and Denva Harris (art director), among other professionals. The sessions will be immersive, so the children can use their devices and recommended apps to practice what they learnt during the camp.

What is the most important thing you want people to know about Camp Reel?

Camp Reel is a stepping stone into the world of film and TV for children (that will later help the industry’s growth). So, parents who notice that their kids are creative can connect with us to develop those skills. Their children will be able to meet people who work in the industry and can have those mentorship opportunities early.

Camp Reel is also endorsed by the Jamaica Film & Television Association (JAFTA). Our sponsors also play a significant role in making this camp possible. I want to thank them for joining us on this journey. We look forward to giving the kids a memorable, fun, interactive, and comprehensive learning experience that will positively impact their lives.

Camp Reel will span two weeks, starting 17-28 July 2023, at 10A West Kings House Road. Sessions begin at 9am-3pm Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Fridays are designated for field trips. Limited spaces are available, so please call or WhatsApp message 876-335-2401 or visit their website for registration information. You can also get updates by following Camp Reel on Instagram.

*All images provided by SBG of Camp Reel.