Many people dream of having the attention of cameras. For senior Makyla Daniels, that dream became a reality, because she was chosen to star in a Canadian documentary called Girls on the Bus. Canadian media company TVO is working with director and producer Maureen Judge to create this documentary. Girls on the Bus is meant to highlight high school girls; specifically, the journeys they are taking into the real world and the challenges they face as high school students.

Daniels was recommended for the movie by teacher Mrs. Diane Newton. Newton is a family friend of Judge and was asked to look out for senior girls with personality who would be interested in being a part of a documentary. Newton talked to fellow teachers, many of whom brought up Daniels’ name.

“The producers were looking for high schools girls with a strong, outgoing personality with a story and when Daniels was recommended, she seemed perfect for what they needed,” said Mrs. Diane Newton. “The film-making industry always wants people who have a story to share and magic that can capture the audience’s attention.”

Newton then reached out to Daniels and asked her if she would be interested. When Daniels agreed, Newton informed the producers, who then contacted Daniels and her family.

“I was really surprised when I got a call because I was not expecting that they would choose me and want to record my life,” said Daniels.

To produce the documentary, a crew of three to five people flew down to Florida. They include a cameraman who films everything and a sound person who handles the microphones. Sometimes, a producer is present to help guide the filming and make sure the documentary’s message is passed on.

Daniels said although that she was excited, she initially worried that it might be overwhelming with cameras following her around and attention being brought to her. However, after discussing the opportunity with her family, she decided that she would participate in the film because it was a fun learning experience. Indeed, she has made many funny memories from her experience.

“I get mic’d when they are filming and my friend asked me if it’s annoying when the cameramen are filming me and how it must be a pain. She didn’t know that I was mic’d and that the crew could hear it all and it was hilarious,” remembered Daniels.                         

The crew flew down to Florida during Thanksgiving break to film Daniels and her family at their Thanksgiving dinner. They also filmed Daniels going shopping with her friends on Black Friday. The crew especially focuses on Daniels’ goals and dreams. Her plans for the future include going to Florida Tech on a basketball scholarship, and then going to medical school to hopefully pursue a career in obstetrics and gynecology. So even though she doesn’t plan to make a career before the cameras, she is enjoying the experience regardless.

“Basketball is a passion of mine and I dream of becoming a doctor, but I still am really looking forward to what is going to come with this documentary,” said Daniels.