KCU Pitchfest Showcase 2025 (Top 50)

GERMINATE

GERMINATE tells the story of Dak, an 11 year old boy whose self-doubt and insecurity grow external when a tree emerges from his head and engulfs him entirely during his search for his disappearing friend, Lyanne. Through a restorative inner journey where he battles with his hidden demons, reunites with Lyanne, and meets other struggling kids who are also trapped in this interconnected subconscious world, he learns that he is not alone with his troubles. And he gains hope and self-acceptance. Together, they find their path back to the external world where their loved ones are waiting for them, and so are all the challenges of the real world. Yet, now, Dak has the courage to keep moving forward and allow his true self to grow and shine.

My Why:

This story is inspired by my brother and my childhood. Growing up in a middle income family, our parents worked long hours. Though they loved us, they did not always have time for us. Insecurity and self-doubt were feelings that we tried to overcome alone. No matter how hard we tried to hide them, they always showed up somewhere in our lives inconveniently or even painfully.
Whatever inside us will eventually manifest itself outwardly, but we don’t have to overcome them alone. These are universal emotions that we all experience as we grow. Now that I have my own children, I hope to encourage them and the other kids to accept themselves as who they are, knowing that their individuality will shine through one day.