Shining the Spotlight on Quinta Brunson
Written by Destiny Lyda
As a Philadelphia-based organization, I want to put a special spotlight on a Philly Native, Quinta Brunson. She made quite the buzz on social media this past month for her historic Emmy win. Quinta Brunson has been recognized as the FIRST black woman to win best comedy actress in over 40 years!
Quinta not only stars in, but executive produces, co-writes, and is the creator of the ABC comedy — Abbott Elementary. Great show btw, one of my favs!
The sitcom follows Philadelphia school teachers as they take on the ins and outs of what it means to be a teacher, especially in the public school district. The teachers get creative as they tackle lack of funding and their incredibly funny unqualified principle. The things thrown at them only shows how they persevere to tend to their students and guide them to success.
As a Philadelphia public school K-12 alum, I appreciate the accurate representation of the experiences Philadelphia teachers and students face. I will forever be grateful for the teachers I had growing up and the time they took to encourage the potential I did not always see in myself.
Public schools have a stigma that nothing great can come out of them, but this show and my personal testimony prove otherwise.
I am happy to say that with the support and guidance from my public school teachers and the opportunities given, I was able to join programs that allowed me to run marathons and have my artwork displayed in museums like the Barnes Foundation. I am also the first college graduate in my family.
Success in my definition comes from the resources you have and how you take your natural talents to create something of yourself. You don’t necessarily have to have the fanciest tutors or after school extracurriculars. Learning to use what you have and the resources accessible to you goes a long way.
Now as I’m older and able to reflect on the things I’ve achieved in the past. This position I hold as an intern with Lil Filmmakers comes full circle. It’s important for me to be a part of something that creates a bigger impact. Lil Filmmakers allows me to help young people storytell and grow my craft.
To the people reading this, see creatives like Quinta and let your imagination run! She shows that no matter what your education looks like or the tiniest places you come from- don’t allow for your dreams to seem impossible.
Quinta being honored for her success is such an inspiration in my eyes. She defies odds and shows what hard work and dedication can do for your dreams. As an aspiring writer who has dreams of publishing a book one day, I know my dreams are valid and so are yours!
No one gains success overnight, so give yourself peace and get back up when you fail. Just know you have so much potential and you too will make headlines like Quinta one day too!
In light of Quinta Brunson’s achievements make sure to check out Abbott Elementary’s 3rd season premiering on Feb 7, 2024.
Destiny Lyda is a Philly resident and one of our new copywriting interns.
