My Story

My path to higher education has been an unconventional journey, shaped by resilience, determination, and a passion for storytelling. I started my educational journey in Ethiopia, where I was only able to complete the equivalent of fifth grade before circumstances forced me to leave for my own safety. However, I didn't let adversity deter me.

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After two years of learning Swedish, I transitioned to the equivalent of sixth grade in Sweden and ultimately graduated from high school there. While still in my senior year of high school, I took my first steps into college, pursuing my passion for learning and knowledge.

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But my dream extended beyond the borders of Sweden. I aspired to come to the United States, and as soon as I arrived on American soil, I wasted no time in enrolling in classes at the local community college. Importantly, I embarked on this journey alone, without my family, which meant I had to navigate the complexities of supporting myself as well.

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My passion for storytelling began to take shape when I collaborated with Fanzingo, a nonprofit media agency supporting at-risk youth, outside Stockholm. They encouraged me to volunteer for radio interviews, igniting my interest in media and communication.

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One pivotal moment in my journey occurred during my search for my mother in Ethiopia, whom I hadn't seen for sixteen years. In the scorching desert heat, barefoot and with burning sand underfoot, I was found by an Ethiopian soldier. This soldier's act of compassion and courage not only saved my life but also became a profound symbol of resilience and hope. Inspired by this journey and this soldier's heroic act, I conceived the idea to document it. I took on the roles of camera operator, director, and actor, creating a short documentary film titled "Back to Mama."

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This project held deep personal significance as I aimed to not only reconnect with my mother but also shed light on her remarkable story. In the film, she courageously shared her experiences, from enduring hardships in an Eritrean military camp to embarking on a treacherous journey to Sudan through the desert. The documentary also allowed me to find the Ethiopian soldier who had saved my life during our perilous trek to the Red Cross Camp in Sudan. Meeting him and hearing his perspective on our shared history was a profoundly moving experience.

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My journey subsequently led me to the highly competitive Stockholm Academy of Dramatic Arts, where I was one of only twelve students admitted out of 280 applicants. Although I didn't complete my degree due to familial responsibilities, I continued to nurture my filmmaking skills.

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While coaching seventh graders in filmmaking at Fanzingo's lab, I actively pursued further education through courses and workshops in scriptwriting, directing, producing, and management. Additionally, I learned Arabic to expand my horizons and travel to East and North Africa, where I embarked on creating documentary films for the nonprofit organizations.

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My journey took me to Swedish National Television, where I served in various capacities, including project coordinator, cinematographer, and editor for the national news section. My work was recognized with a $4,000 grant, which I used to create a pilot film exploring adoption identity questions from the perspective of a foster child.

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During a winter break from a U.S. community college, I traveled to Ethiopia to create a short narrative film, "Yewub Dar," focusing on the environmental degradation of Lake Tana, a lifeline for many fishermen and farmers. The film received acclaim, becoming an official selection for the 2018 Washington, D.C., FilmFest and was screened on April 22, 2018.

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In the summer of 2019, I was honored to secure an internship at Warner Bros. studios in Los Angeles through the Television Academy. This opportunity allowed me to shadow accomplished creators and interact with guest speakers who ignited my passion for filmmaking and film school.

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Throughout my journey, my primary interest in filmmaking has been to tell stories by and about Africa and Africans, amplifying voices and narratives that often go unheard. I am committed to sharing opportunities and knowledge with young people, inspiring them to use film as a powerful medium for personal expression and artistic exploration. My goal is to help the next generation of filmmakers realize their potential and contribute to the rich tapestry of stories in the entertainment and news film industries.

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My experiences have not only shaped my career but also reinforced my dedication to mentorship and community-building. As I have been blessed with opportunities throughout my journey, I am wholeheartedly committed to paying it forward and empowering others to pursue their dreams in the world of filmmaking.