Profiles of Tenacity: Shanylah Sainvil

Shanylah Sainvil is an entertainment and media studies major from McDonough, Georgia, expected to graduate in spring 2025. She is also pursuing a minor in design and media and a certificate in new media studies. With a passion for digital media, Sainvil is involved in the Black Theatrical Ensemble and the Elevate Film Festival.

Read her Q/A below:

Why did you choose your major?

My enthusiasm for film and television began at a very young age when I first saw that little, square, yellow man flipping burger patties on my tiny television screen. Over time, I developed a love for creating characters and environments in the solitude of my bedroom. My quirky imagination turned my bare white walls into a canvas for stories — ranging from roommates stopping crime together to secret societies hunting aliens, and even heartwarming tales of owners finding their lost dogs. It wasn’t just about unleashing my playful side, but also fulfilling my need for escapism and dreamlike fantasies across various forms of media, such as video and writing. I’ve learned that I don’t have a specific genre I want to pursue — I simply love creating whatever sparks my imagination.

What does tenacity mean to you?

To me, tenacity means acknowledging that when you fall down, it’s all about how you get back up. Some things aren’t worth all your time and energy, so it’s important to prioritize and focus on what matters most, either in the moment or in the long run. Sometimes, you just have to shake it off, laugh and quickly pivot.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to other Grady students?

Make time to support your friends and classmates. Send them a reel, greet them, stop by one of their club meetings, talk about the latest season of a show, congratulate them, chat about upcoming projects and laugh at the unserious things. Quite literally, live, laugh and smile! Love one another. The acquaintanceships and friendships you build during your time here are extremely important — not just for the future, but for the present. They also serve as the best medicine for an aching heart. Everyone is chasing a dream or a goal, so supporting each other through it all is everything. Lift each other up — a simple message can take less than five minutes to write and send.

What motivates you?

What motivates me is creating a profound impact. Making a piece of art and seeing its effect on your audience and the world around you is deeply meaningful to me. My storytelling typically revolves around uplifting underrepresented communities and organizations. It comes from a place of gentleness and care, sharing what happens behind closed doors, learning to understand those experiences and translating that message for others who may not be in similar positions. I like to think of it as another language. Often, I reflect on how media can transcend a person’s lifetime, shaping future generations of creatives and gaining prevalence in its time, just as others’ work has done for me. Our voices and artistry matter and are meant to be shared.

What or who has had the biggest impact on your life during your time at UGA?

I unexpectedly attended the Grady trip in Los Angeles last summer, and it was such a huge “pinch me” moment. The farthest I had ever been from home, at that point, was Austin, Texas, so to travel cross-country at 19 to 20 years old was insane to me — especially since I was going without any parental figures or family. I’m a huge dreamer at heart, so living out the fruits of my labor felt surreal. I remember thinking, “I’m meant to be here… but I can’t believe I’m here.” I’ll forever treasure the experience.

What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year?

Creating a healthy relationship with “discipline.” For me, motivation can only take me so far; it’s a jump starter for many things in my life. However, the true game changer was learning that when one battery runs out, you’ve found a fuel that will keep you going no matter what — discipline. I believe discipline will take you farther than you could ever imagine. Stay consistent, practice your soft skills (e.g., time management, communication, etc.), tune out the world for a moment and remind yourself why you’re chasing it.

Where’s your favorite place on campus and why?

I love strolling around the Lamar Dodd School of Art — admiring the masterpieces on the walls, running into familiar faces and engaging in small talk with professors and staff. Art has inspired me and been a major part of my life since kindergarten, shaping my well-being in so many ways. Immersing myself in another world to take a break from mine is like soaking up the sun — it’s a breath of fresh air for me.

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

Don’t let people define what success means to you. There have been countless times when I’ve met people who get too comfortable defining my life based on how they perceive me. Especially in the age of social media, many of us are living in an echo chamber of unrealistic expectations. Remember who you are, what you’re trying to accomplish and don’t beat yourself up if you feel behind your peers. Break free.

Editor: Lily Alarcon, lia52467@uga.edu