Students’ films headed to international film festival
BLYTHEWOOD — Every summer, a unique opportunity lights up the imagination of local children in Blythewood, thanks to the passion of accredited film producer Andrew Gajadhar. In partnership with the Richland County Public Library, Gajadhar hosts a free, three-day film camp designed to introduce young minds to the exciting world of filmmaking.
Now a summer staple for families across the town, the camp has gained recognition not only for its creative approach but also for the way it cultivates confidence, teamwork, and technical skills among young people ages 10 to 18.
What sets this program apart is its hands-on nature: participants aren’t just learning theory, they’re making movies.
Gajadhar, a well-respected name in the local film industry and co-director of the Freedom Festival International Film Festival, sees the camp as more than just a learning experience.
“It’s about giving kids a voice and the tools to express themselves,” he says. “Film is a powerful medium, and when you give young people the means to create, the stories they tell are incredible.”
Held annually in early June at the Blythewood branch of the Richland County Public Library, the camp takes students through the filmmaking process from concept to screening.
Day one kicks off with an introduction to film and understanding set equipment. With the guidance of local professionals and volunteers from the library and Gajadhar, campers get hands-on training using cameras, lights, sound gear, and other film equipment.
Day two is dedicated to creativity and planning. Each group chooses their own film genre and builds a storyline inspired by their surroundings, often incorporating local parks, neighborhoods, and the library grounds itself.
Gajadhar emphasizes the importance of empowering students to take ownership of their projects:
“They direct, write, act, and shoot. Our job is to support their vision,” he said.
On the final day, the students put everything they’ve learned into practice, filming their short film under tight deadlines and the direction of Gajadhar.
The results are always inspiring, ranging from heartfelt dramas to science fiction and offbeat comedy, shot, acted out, and created by the kids themselves.
But the experience doesn’t end there.
Each short film produced during the camp will be featured in the student showcase block of the Freedom Festival International Film Festival, which Gajadhar co-directs.
This year’s festival, set to take place on the weekend of Aug. 22, promises to be the most exciting yet, with the young filmmakers’ work screening alongside entries from professionals around the globe.
“The look on their faces when they see their names on the big screen is unforgettable,” says Gajadhar. “It’s that moment of realization — ‘I did this.’ That’s when it all clicks.”
Parents and community members flock to the festival to support the students, often filling the theater to capacity during the youth block. For many campers, it’s their first time attending a film festival, let alone participating in one.
Library staff praise the partnership, noting that Andrew’s camp has become one of the highlights of their summer programming, as it aligns with their mission to inspire lifelong learning and creativity.
Now in its third year, the camp continues to grow, with a waiting list for spots and increasing interest from others in the community.
Gajadhar says he hopes to expand the program in future years, possibly offering advanced sessions for returning students or satellite camps in neighboring counties.
In this area rich with culture and creativity, Andrew Gajadhar’s commitment to giving back through education is a shining example of how the arts can shape lives.
As the credits roll on another summer film camp, one thing is clear: Blythewood’s next generation of filmmakers are already in the director’s chair.
