SHE’AWÉÉ (My Baby)

 Please watch our trailer here: ( YouTube Link for SHE’AWÉÉ’ Trailer:    

https://youtu.be/Uh4D2d6OlEs )

 SHE’AWÉÉ’, follows the story of an Indigenous Navajo boy named Shawn, who will be played by actor, Mosiah Silentwalker (Yellowstone, (Paramount), and Dark Winds, (AMC). Along with the difficulties of a boy existing in two worlds, Shawn is also struggling with his identity as a two-spirit individual. On one side, he deals with the stresses of being bullied at school and on the other he fears rejection of his father, mother, and family who all share strong Religious & Traditional beliefs. Afraid of rejection and hate, we are invited into Shawn’s world as he embarks on his journey. A journey that will lead him down a path of self-discovery in hopes of gaining love and acceptance.

 Yá’át’ééh (Hello), My name is Naat’anii Tsoh, Sheldon “Shelby” Silentwalker. Naat’anii Tsoh (Big Leader) is the name that my great-grandmother Helen called me by. I am Water Flows Together Clan, born for the Bitter Water Clan, my Maternal Grandfathers are Zuni Water Edge People and my Paternal Grandfathers are Towering House Clan. I am a Diné man, from Chinle, Arizona on the Navajo Reservation.

   This past year has been one of the most difficult times of my life. At the end of December and half of January, I fell very ill, and I slipped into a coma. At one point, loved ones were told to say their goodbyes. After the hard work of the medical staff and many prayers from friends and family, I was able to come back from that. Relearning how to do the simplest of tasks and regaining my memory was a trial. However, I am getting stronger each day. From the time I was a child, it had always been a goal of mine to work in the film industry, and for that reason I went back to school to learn the skills necessary to help me with that goal.

   After I returned home from the hospital, I had full use of my right arm, and my left arm was still coming around. I found myself sitting in front of my computer. I started writing, as best as I could with limited use of my limbs, on a project I had started 5 years ago. A project that was very dear and close to home for me. I and my mom talked together about this film that I wanted to make. She was very encouraging. She was such a huge advocate for the LGBTQ+ community as I am. My mother did her best in her fight against cancer. Sadly she passed away in January 2020. I know she smiles down from Heaven and she is always with me. I finally finished the screenplay and named it “SHE’AWÉÉ’.” From Navajo to English, that translates into “My Baby.” I know my mother would be proud that I am finally at this point of making this film.

   That brings me here today, to GoFundMe. Or you can use my Cash App: $SSilentwalker. I am kindly asking for your help to make this film. The funds would be used for the crew and talent. I would be honored to make this beautiful movie for many to watch. I am reaching out to each of you, my family, and my friends to help make this movie a reality.

   Thank you so much for reading and helping me with this goal. I would also like to Thank Connor Chee, Diné Pianist, for allowing us to use his music for the making of our trailer. Please share this. Love and Blessings to you all. I Love You. 

Sincerely, 

Naat’anii Tsoh 

(Sheldon Silentwalker)