PORT ORANGE, Fla. – Steven Berkani’s world has consisted of wheelchairs and leg braces since birth due to cerebral palsy. But that hasn’t stopped this Floridian from tirelessly chasing his filmmaking dreams one chin click at a time.
Steven’s passion for cinema sparked early on. He was fascinated by the emotional manipulation film editing allowed. By high school he taught himself to control editing software using a pointer fixed to his wheelchair commanded by his chin.
After years of refining his filmmaking skills crafting family movies, in 2015, Steven launched Berkani Productions. This birthed his career crafting slick short films and PSAs, bringing awareness to social issues like bullying and texting while driving.
“I want to produce films that emotionally captivate audiences while spotlighting causes needing attention,” – Steven
Jaw-Dropping Feats
According to Steven’s mother, Karen, her son’s editing feats are jaw-dropping. “Steven edits entirely independently, lying down using just his chin and nose to control editing programs,” she said.
Steven has garnered inspiration from acclaimed directors like Steven Spielberg. He now has his sights set on one day directing high-profile feature films focused on vital causes.
“Anything’s possible if one believes in themselves,” Steven said. “My disability merely requires finding creative solutions.”
Empowering Equipment
To turn his lofty feature film dreams into reality, Steven recently launched a GoFundMe campaign that has funded a high-end Mac Studio. But he needs additional support to purchase a vital MacBook Pro laptop, allowing increased editing versatility.
According to Steven, achieving complete editing independence could accelerate his trajectory toward directing breakthrough films that captivate while spurring change. His mother agrees.
“I truly think Steven has the skills, passion, and vision for major mainstream success,” she said.
Steven’s journey proves that while hands may aid filmmakers, passion and vision remain the true essentials. And this Virginia filmmaker has both in spades.
To support Steven’s campaign, visit https://gofund.me/d81ca920
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