'' Strive '' is a 2019 American independent film . Set in Harlem , the film tells the story of Kalani Johnson ( JoiStaRR ) , a driven 18-year-old high school student who dreams of getting accepted into Yale University while facing the challenging life in the projects and streets of Harlem - with her only ally being college counselor Mr. Rose ( Danny Glover ) . The film premiered at the Harlem International Film Festival in May 2019 . In June 2019 , it also premiered at the American Black Film Festival in Miami and the San Francisco Black Film Festival as well
Harlem International Film Festival
Harlem International Film Festival
Strive (film)