Meet Maria Hinkova, A 15-Year-Old Worldschooler and Filmmaker.

his blog is part of the 88 Thought Leaders feature by EducationNext, showcasing inspiring individuals making a difference in their fields.

Maria, a 15-year-old worldschooler, is a budding filmmaker whose journey exemplifies the power of curiosity, mentorship, and passion.

From working on film sets in Malta and Bansko to transforming folklore stories into captivating short films, Maria’s story is one of creativity and determination.

The Filmmaking Project (FMP), which Maria has been part of, is supported by MaNaBu—a collaborative initiative to support young people and their dreams.

Guided by the mentorship of film director Lara Olbetor in Bansko, the FMP empowers teenagers with filming, editing, and production skills.

Participants also earn MaNaBu’s certifications, which open doors to global work assignments.

This excellent model can be replicated worldwide, bringing experts together to inspire and guide the future generation.

Worldschooling communities in Bansko have played a pivotal role in creating such collaborative opportunities for young people and their families.

Key People Influencing Maria’s Life

Maria, a 15-year-old worldschooler, has been deeply influenced by a variety of mentors and educators. One of the most significant figures in her life is Lara Olbeter, a film director whom Maria met in 2022.

Their relationship began with Maria helping Lara during filmmaking sessions, which later developed into structured projects involving other children from around the world.

Lara has not only been a mentor but also a source of inspiration, allowing Maria to experience life on actual film sets in places like Malta and Bansko.

Another influential figure is Arta Statovci, Maria’s AI mentor, who helps guide her through innovative and modern approaches to learning.

Apart from these mentors, Maria’s parents have played a vital role.

She often accompanies them to their work, observing and learning from their day-to-day activities. She also credits her primary school teachers for instilling foundational values and knowledge that continue to shape her perspective.

Primary Sources she uses to Stay Updated

Maria is a curious learner who stays updated on her interests through multiple avenues. She loves reading books and articles, which help expand her knowledge and imagination.

The internet and news platforms also play a significant role in keeping her informed. Discussions with her family are another major source of learning and insight. Additionally, Maria leverages AI tools to explore and understand topics more efficiently, showcasing her adaptability to modern technology.

Biggest Failures and Accomplishments

Maria’s accomplishments are a testament to her dedication and passion. One of her proudest achievements is working on filmmaking projects that transform folklore stories into short films.

This creative endeavor allowed her to blend storytelling with technical skills, making her contributions truly unique.

She also takes pride in her cross-country skiing journey, having trained for four years and improved significantly over time.

As for failures, Maria views them as opportunities for growth. She believes failure is something you can revisit and learn from.

Her resilient mindset has enabled her to approach challenges with optimism and determination.

Three Main Character Traits

Curious: Always eager to learn, Maria is driven by an innate curiosity about the world around her.

Determined: She is committed to her goals, whether it’s filmmaking, skiing, or personal growth.

Empathetic: Maria’s preference for spending time with older individuals reflects her ability to connect and learn from diverse perspectives.

Three Things She Wishes Young People should know earlier

The importance of seeking out mentors and not hesitating to approach people who inspire her.

That failure is not the end but a stepping stone for improvement and eventual success.

The value of focusing on what truly brings joy and fulfillment.

“Do what you really love, and don’t hesitate to approach people who can help you explore your interests.” - Maria Hinkova.

She believes that passion and persistence are the keys to achieving anything one sets their mind to.

Maria has ambitious goals for the future. She aims to delve deeper into filmmaking, work on more projects, and hone her skills in skiing. For Maria, success is about enjoying what you do and feeling good about it.

Her journey as a worldschooler is a shining example of how embracing diverse experiences and staying true to one’s passions can lead to a fulfilling and inspiring life.