Meet Lorre Jones of McDonough

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lorre Jones.

Hi Lorre, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My story starts at Spelman College. I was a psychology major with a concentration in mental health, and I absolutely loved learning and applying my knowledge to understand and help people. However, halfway through my second year, I realized that the careers weren’t for me, and I instead wanted to use my knowledge in the Entertainment industry. I got a full scholarship to a film program called Semester Cinema, which helped me learn hands-on experience on a film set for months. It showed me there is a need for mental health services, given how brutal that industry is. I’m currently on my last year at Loyola Marymount University in the Writing and Producing for TV program for graduate school, and it’s here that I decided to follow my love for animation and psychology. A mutual, Z Cher-Amie (they/them), I had on X (Twitter) runs a black owned, LGBTQ+ owned animation studio, so I asked them if I could join the company and get help on my thesis. We’ve been working together for years, even going to the Tribeca Film Festival for their short film. So here I am now, running my own animation team, leading voice actors, writing creative yet accurate mental health stories, and hoping to make a difference in the writing, animation and mental health space for every type of person.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It was not a smooth road. I had a lot of struggles being neurodivergent (ADHD) with keeping up with my work, relationships, especially with people who saw me as different, and motivating myself to take care of my life, in addition to trying to follow my dreams. It often felt like one or the other. So In May, when I had a lack of sleep and my social media followed by many creatives was on the line, I ended up getting my account stolen and sent them money that I would never get back. Losing that $2,500 set my schedule for my animation back. But it reminded me of a quote I heard at Spelman, “Setbacks are setups for comebacks.” Now, I’m on the comeback and I’m setting things up so my career can start off strong.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a black, queer, non-binary screenwriter, producer, script supervisor, and director within animation. I specialize in diverse, complex characters using accurate and creative knowledge and analysis of psychology within fun, detailed worlds. I’m known for being a part of the Cross-Cultural Impact Jam at Spelman College, where I helped write a video game with people from Canada and France. This was part of the pilot project that brought the video game minor to Spelman College. I am most proud of my abilty to create a space of comfort and trust that breeds within itself a culture of communication, creativity, and friendship. At school, I’m known as the one who likes animation a lot and the one who listens to others. What sets me apart is my empathy and intelligence. In a world that refuses to think critically, I refuse to think surface-level about the potential of myself and my loved ones. I want to encourage and bring animation to Georgia, so there’s a place to create in the Southeast of the U.S., and in such a fast-moving industry, I believe in mitigating the pain to allow for better health for creatives and audiences in response to what is created. It’s more than entertainment. But we can also create older kid and young adult stories that push the envelope on what stories people want to see.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Social Media and absolutely not expecting anything from it. Being loud and honest yet uplifting, even when you think no one is watching. What has worked well: Giving support to other creatives’ projects. Whether that be sending out the word, donating to the crowdfunding websites, or even helping with the last bit of money they need for rent to complete their project. I went to panels and screenings to meet people, learn and discuss, and asking good questions. I have also looked up people beforehand and brought up things we have in common. I make sure to make a connection even if it’s not going anywhere soon. I also bring business cards to fun things like Pride events and Comic conventions because there are so my creatives in these spaces. Always try to compliment and make connections, not random contacts. You want a good memory to come up if they see your name again. Kindness is not weakness. Empathy is not a problem. Communication to support those in your community or life may be more important than protecting your peace. Also, be nice to yourself and others. People can sense fakeness and a lack of authenticity. Be you and find people who like you for you.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joneslorre/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorre-jones-b81129205
• Twitter: https://x.com/joneslorre_
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Kind.Mind.Animation