By Armida Yee-Muñoz
ATLANTA — “People who have the best opportunities in any industry, particularly [the entertainment industry], are the ones who create it for themselves. Full stop,” said Anthony R. Page (B.S. ‘01, B.S. ‘01, B.A. ‘01, B.A. ‘01), a Georgia State University Honors College alum who has built an impressive career as a film producer, director, writer and actor.
With over 300 productions to his name, Page operates under Blue Bistro Creative, a production company he founded to express his creative vision.
Page’s journey to becoming a creative powerhouse began with a rigorous academic path at Georgia State University, where he earned four bachelor’s degrees — in accounting, finance, theater and film, and video production — in just four years.
“I knew the struggle of being an artist, so I had to be practical. Accounting is the language of business, and finance helps you understand the markets. I wanted to use those skills to fund my art career,” Page said. However, the call of creativity proved too strong, leading him to take a leap of faith in 2008 to pursue his artistic dreams full time.
“It hasn’t been graceful, but by God’s grace, I’m still standing,” he said. “I haven’t missed a meal.”
Passion for Storytelling
Through history, film and live performance, Page is committed to ensuring that powerful stories — past and present — are seen, heard and remembered. Above all, Page is a storyteller — one who seeks to uncover overlooked narratives and amplify unheard voices. His work with the African American Panoramic Experience (APEX) Museum, located near the Honors College, is a testament to that mission.
Dedicated to preserving African American history, the museum is expanding into the digital space through the APEX Museum TV Network. As program director, Page is leading efforts to create and curate the platform’s original content that brings these untold stories to life.
“Our history did not begin with slavery,” Page said. “The APEX Museum’s platform lets us ask, ‘Who were we before colonists arrived?’ and tell those stories through short documentaries, oral histories and live theater.” For Page, this initiative is about more than history — it’s about reclaiming narratives and shaping the future.
His passion for storytelling also drives his work with the ALMA Film Festival, which “prioritizes voices that often go unheard,” Page said.
“Hollywood and major festivals focus so much on North America and Europe that incredible stories [in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and Central and South America] are overlooked. We’re shaking the trees to find those stories with this festival.”
Mentorship and Leadership
Page’s passion for storytelling is matched only by his commitment to mentorship. As the student engagement chair on the Honors College Alumni Advisory Board, he actively supports students and recent graduates by offering guidance, networking opportunities and career advice at alumni events. As more than just a connection to the industry, Page helps students navigate their creative paths, refine their artistic voices and develop projects that showcase their unique talents.
“The most important thing in any industry, but especially in ours, is to create opportunities for yourself,” Page said. “Find your artistic signature, build a project around it and connect with the people who value it.” Beyond advice, he connects students with real opportunities, whether through internships, collaborations or direct career support.
This hands-on mentorship was clear at Georgia State’s fall graduation in 2023. As a graduating film student crossed the stage, Page stepped into the aisle, shook his hand, and said, “Congratulations. Talk to me after the ceremony. I may have a job for you.”
“I wish someone had done that for me when I was starting out,” he said. “Sometimes all it takes is planting a seed.”
A Legacy Rooted in GSU’s Diversity
Page credits the Honors College’s diversity with shaping his worldview.
“Georgia State was one of the most profound experiences of my life,” he said. “Sitting in classrooms with people from so many different cultures and traditions expanded my perspective exponentially. That diversity informs everything I do today.”
Page’s commitment to fostering community extends to his vision for the Honors College’s future. “I want to see a lifelong sense of community among Panthers,” he said. “When one of us succeeds, we all should rally behind them.”
As Page continues to push creative boundaries and mentor the next generation, he remains grounded in the power of storytelling. “It’s not about the accolades,” he said. “It’s about the impact. If I can inspire just one person to pursue their dream in storytelling, then I’ve done my job."
The Honors College at Georgia State University is a destination for high-achieving students who embody curiosity, take pride in their work and dream about how they can make an impact through their studies and careers. Its mission is to serve students in a welcoming space by engaging students’ curiosity, empowering them to achieve their highest potential and inspiring them to find their place in the world. Its students form life-long friendships, participate in community service, perform research, excel academically, explore their interests and chart their career paths.