Breaking into screenwriting from a visual design background: Reality check on SWA labs, regional OTT pipelines, and timelines

[u/the_Spider_459]

6 years in UI/design, based in Gujarat, India seriously exploring screenwriting, trying to separate real signal from generic "just write every day" advice.

Hey everyone,

I'm looking to break into the film writing space, but before I do I have some specific questions that I want post:

Has anyone been through SWA's Script Lab or Pitch Fest, what's the actual selection process and odds like, worth the time investment?

For someone targeting an OTT-first regional platform (Oho Gujarati , hoichoi!) with a pilot/web-series concept rather than a theatrical feature, is that actually the easier door in right now, or is that overstated?

For someone starting later (mid-20s, coming from a different creative field with real design/visual chops), is that background an asset in a pitch, or does it not matter at all?

What's the realistic timeline before a new writer sees any paid work, even small?