Paquita Hughes’ journey into the film industry is a lesson in perseverance.
Paquita Hughes
Producer and Owner, Rock Violet Motion
The road to earning a college degree isn’t easy for anyone, but Hughes’s journey to The LA Film School is an inspiring tale of believing in yourself against all odds. As a child of the foster care system and a college dropout, her path into the entertainment industry is a true success story.
“I grew up in Mississippi, but I was born in Puerto Rico and came to Mississippi by way of New Jersey,” explained Hughes.
“I had a very rough childhood, so escapism is what drew me into the filmmaking industry. I was a heavy reader, and I still am. Reading used to give me an escape. As a kid, during those harsh Mississippi summers, my mom would give us two options: ‘Either take a nap or read a book.’ I always read. It was my way of escaping.”
Hughes’ vivid imagination and love of reading stayed with her into adulthood. After serving in the military as an air traffic controller, Hughes enrolled in The LA Film School using her GI Bill benefits to study film production.
“The major thing was transitioning from military to civilian lifestyle,” said Hughes. “I got out and I came right to Los Angeles. I was also diagnosed with an invisible wound, and it was a really interesting phase of my diagnosis. I was figuring out who I am once again.”
She discovered her talents for producing and eventually landed on the sets of major productions including HBO’s “Perry Mason,” Hulu’s “Little Fires Everywhere,” and Peacock’s “Bel-Air.” Hughes is currently a location manager/scout and resides in Los Angeles with her daughter.