Meet Villma Zenelaj

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Villma Zenelaj. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Villma, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

I’ve always been drawn to the arts, even from a very young age. My love for storytelling started early—I was singing in the town square at just five years old. Soon after, I was introduced to poetry, and by the time I finished second grade, I was already writing poems and short stories. My mother would often recite poetry to us, and those moments became some of my earliest and most cherished introductions to the world of storytelling.

As a teenager, I discovered the Bible and was captivated by its vivid illustrations and powerful narratives. This deepened my fascination with the art of storytelling. However, life took an unexpected turn when I came to the United States as an exchange student. I pursued psychology in college, driven by my curiosity about human behavior and the complexities of the human mind.

It wasn’t until I moved to Los Angeles that I truly found my calling. Initially, I pursued singing and acting, but over time, I realized my passion was creating and telling stories my own way. My sister shared this creative spirit—she wanted to act, and I wanted to write and direct. As a half-joke and half-dare, we decided to make our first movie. From that moment on, we were hooked.

Now, I confidently say that my purpose is to tell stories that uplift the human spirit and reflect the goodness of God. I believe storytelling has the power to inspire, connect, and transform, and I am deeply grateful to be able to fulfill this calling through filmmaking.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

My sister and I co-founded Colored Film Productions to bring diverse stories to life through cinema. We’ve ventured into various genres, creating films that resonate with different audiences. Our first film, What Do I Do Now, is a lighthearted comedy, followed by In the Woods, a suspenseful thriller. Eagle delves into the intensity of political drama, while our latest project, Residuum, explores a dystopian future. Each project is a unique journey, and we take pride in crafting films that not only entertain but also inspire reflection.

For me, filmmaking is like building a house—it starts with a solid foundation, detailed architectural plans, and the right materials and labor. Similarly, a film begins with the story. Writing the script is a meticulous process of drafting and redrafting until it feels just right. Yet, even as the film evolves through production and editing, the script is never truly “done.” It’s constantly shaped by the creative process, and I’ve learned to embrace those changes as part of the magic.

One of the most exciting parts of filmmaking for me is working with actors. Rehearsing with them and then bringing the story to life on set is an indescribable high. Being on set is a unique blend of exhilaration and pressure—it’s about orchestrating the day to ensure everything runs smoothly, even though things rarely go as planned.

I start every filming day with a prayer, and I’m continually amazed by how God orchestrates everything, even through unexpected challenges. Sometimes, mistakes on set lead to moments that feel more real and authentic, reminding me that staying present and connected is key.

At Colored Film Productions, we’re not just making movies; we’re telling stories that reflect humanity in its rawest, most meaningful form. We hope to uplift, inspire, and connect with audiences around the world through our work.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, I can confidently say that three key qualities have been most impactful in my journey: resilience, creativity, and faith.

1. Resilience: Why it matters: The path to success is rarely smooth, and in filmmaking—or any creative field—you will face setbacks, rejections, and challenges. Resilience is what keeps you moving forward despite the obstacles.
Advice for beginners: Learn to embrace failure as a stepping stone. Treat every challenge as a learning experience, and don’t be discouraged when things don’t go as planned. Resilience is built over time, and the more you practice it, the stronger you’ll become.

2.Creativity : Why it matters: Creativity is the heart of storytelling. Whether it’s writing, directing, or problem-solving on set, creativity allows you to find unique solutions and tell stories that resonate with people.
Advice for beginners: Nurture your creativity by staying curious and open-minded. Read widely, watch films, explore different art forms, and surround yourself with inspiring people. Creativity flourishes when you’re willing to take risks and think outside the box.

3.Faith : Why it matters: For me, faith has been a guiding force throughout my journey. It gives me strength and perspective when things feel uncertain. Filmmaking, especially, requires trust—in yourself, your team, and the process—and faith helps me stay grounded and hopeful.
Advice for beginners: Whatever your source of strength may be—faith, mindfulness, or self-reflection—lean into it. Find something that helps you stay centered and focused, even when the road ahead feels unclear.

Final Advice:

Start small but dream big. Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment to begin your journey; just take that first step.
Surround yourself with a supportive community. Collaboration is a powerful tool, especially in creative endeavors.
Finally, be patient with yourself. Growth takes time, but if you stay consistent, resilient, and open to learning, the results will be worth it.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

Without a doubt, God has been my greatest source of strength and guidance. The wisdom and knowledge I’ve gained from reading the Bible have been instrumental in shaping my perspective, not only as a filmmaker but as a person. The stories, teachings, and principles in Scripture have given me clarity, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose. They remind me to stay humble, trust the process, and remain faithful even in the face of challenges.

Equally important has been the support of my sister. Her faithfulness and unwavering belief in me have been a cornerstone of my success. She’s not just a creative partner but also my biggest cheerleader, always encouraging me to push forward, even when things seemed impossible. Her shared vision and dedication have made it possible to bring our stories to life.

Together, God’s guidance and my sister’s loyalty have been essential in overcoming obstacles and building the skills, qualities, and mindset needed for success. They’ve both taught me the power of faith, collaboration, and perseverance, and for that, I am deeply grateful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://coloredfilms.net
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/gretavilma
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vilma-zenelaj-74640912/
• Twitter: https://x.com/ColoredFilms
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Greta-Vilma

Image Credits

Colored Films LLC