Her Story
About Kathryn
Kathryn Villareal Bell is a multidisciplinary creative professional, writer, producer, and filmmaker serving as Assistant Studio Head at Pasage Studios in Pittsburgh. Over the course of her career with the studio, Kathryn has progressed through several roles, including intern, head intern, manager, producer, and director, gaining experience across creative production, studio operations, social media content, events, and film projects. She has also worked as an executive producer and continues to expand her creative portfolio through directing, producing, writing, and storytelling.
A first-generation college student, Kathryn is pursuing her education at Carnegie Mellon University, where she is studying Creative Writing and developing her interests in film and visual media. Her creative journey began with poetry, inspired in part by her grandfather's early introduction of music and art and by growing up in an arts-driven family. In September 2025, she published her debut poetry book, 19, a Playlist, a biographical work dedicated to her late father. She has also performed her poetry for Pittsburgh audiences and is continuing to develop her writing through fiction and screenwriting.
Looking toward the future, Kathryn hopes to become a feature film director while building a lifelong body of work spanning poetry, fiction, screenwriting, playwriting, journalism, and film. She is particularly passionate about using storytelling to explore meaningful perspectives and contribute to important conversations. Outside of her professional creative work, Kathryn enjoys fashion, including thrifting and creating clothing, as well as salsa dancing. Guided by ambition, loyalty, and gratitude, she continues to pursue opportunities that allow her to grow as an artist, leader, and storyteller.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kathryn
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my family. I come from a strong line of men and women who overcame seemingly impossible challenges, and their resilience taught me how to persevere. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without their strength and example.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to keep pursuing your ambitions, even when the path is difficult or resources are limited. I’ve learned to create opportunities rather than wait for them and to remain open to exploring different forms of creativity and storytelling.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Even when you don’t feel like continuing, remember that what you are creating may be something someone else needs to experience. If you’re afraid to keep going for yourself, keep going for the person who needs what you have to offer.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is navigating AI while protecting the value of human creativity, emotion, and lived experience. Minority creatives also face increasing challenges with representation. At the same time, there are exciting opportunities to break traditional boundaries and explore new forms of creative expression, especially for younger creatives.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are ambition, loyalty, and gratitude. I strive to pursue my goals with determination, remain loyal to the people and opportunities that matter, and stay grateful throughout my journey.
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