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What sparked your passion for film? Was there a specific moment that set you on this path?

Our journey into filmmaking was an unexpected twist. Kam had just lost his job in Arizona, and I was living in DC. Out of nowhere, I suggested, “Let’s start our own business.” Kam replied, “I can’t go back home, so why not?” That moment lit a fire in us. We began with a podcast called *Full Circle*, and soon after, the idea for our first film, *Chasing Purpose*, came to life. Inspired by the Great Resignation, when millennials and Gen Z were leaving corporate jobs to pursue their passions, this film became our own passion project. As we worked on it, we realized filmmaking was our calling. We left behind everything—our families, jobs, and comfort—to chase this dream in Atlanta.

How do you balance artistic integrity with market demands and audience expectations?

For us, it’s about staying true to our vision while delivering content that resonates with the audience. We’re upfront with clients: we won’t compromise our creative direction to follow trends. But we’re also aware of what’s happening in the industry. Navigating the balance between artistry and market demand is tricky, but we do it thoughtfully. Ultimately, it’s about producing work that reflects who we are while ensuring our clients are happy. We strive to find a balance that maintains our creative authenticity without losing audience connection.

 Can you share your creative process? How do you bring ideas to life?

Our creative process is fueled by energy and inspiration. It often starts with a single, wild idea that excites us. From there, we dive into brainstorming, usually with music in the background. Music is our creative fuel—it helps us get into the right headspace. Once we’ve developed a strong concept, we bring in our team to bring the idea to life. Films, art, and other creative mediums also inspire us, allowing us to bring fresh perspectives to each project. It’s a combination of music, film, and collaboration that transforms our ideas into finished products.

What challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge was moving to Atlanta with nothing but our dreams. About eight months in, we lost everything—our home, stability, and nearly our confidence. We bounced from place to place, staying with friends, family, and in hotels. It was a tough period, but we never gave up. Our faith and belief in our vision kept us going. Through the struggle, we learned that the journey is more valuable than the destination. Material things come and go, but we gained resilience, grit, and a clearer understanding of what really matters. The sacrifices have shaped us, and we’ve learned to embrace every high and low of this journey.

Collaboration is key in creativity. Who do you enjoy working with, and how do they inspire you?

We love collaborating with emerging creatives—people who are unafraid to push boundaries. We’re drawn to those whose work has purpose and a vision that aligns with ours. Kam and I always aim to challenge ourselves with each project, asking, “How can we inspire others through this?” Every collaboration brings its challenges, but that’s where the magic happens. We embrace each obstacle as an opportunity for growth. For us, collaboration is about elevating the project and inspiring others to pursue their dreams.

How do you stay motivated and inspired, especially during creative blocks?

Faith keeps us grounded, especially during creative slumps. When things aren’t flowing naturally, we lean on gratitude and keep pushing forward. Some of our best ideas have come when we’ve felt stuck. In those moments, we bounce bold ideas off each other until the spark reignites. No idea is too big or wild—we give ourselves the freedom to explore. Music also plays a huge role, helping us find inspiration when we’re in a creative rut.

How have your personal experiences shaped your creative work?

Our personal journeys have profoundly influenced our creative work. They shape the stories we tell, the perspectives we bring, and the values we incorporate into each project. Having faced rejection and challenges ourselves, we understand what it’s like to have a vision that others might not see. Our work reflects our grit, resilience, and faith, which we hold onto no matter the obstacles.

What advice would you give to young creatives or entrepreneurs entering your industry?

Don’t be afraid to chase your vision, even if you’re the only one who believes in it. You may not have all the answers right away, but you’ll figure it out as you go. Don’t focus on what you don’t have—just start. When your work is bigger than yourself, when it’s something you’d do for free, that’s when you know it’s worth pursuing. Hold onto that passion, and don’t let go. The journey will be tough, but if you love what you’re doing, it will be worth every struggle.

What has been your proudest moment or project, and why?

Our proudest moment has been creating *The Artist Collective*. We’ve walked the difficult path that many creatives face—dealing with rejection, limited resources, and being overlooked. That’s why we started the Collective. It’s our way of turning the tables, offering a space for creatives to connect, collaborate, and uplift each other. Our mission is to break down the barriers that hold artists back and ensure every voice gets heard. We’re proud because we know firsthand how hard it is to break into this industry, and now, we’re helping others find their way without facing it alone.

 What are your biggest goals for the future, and how do you see your work evolving?

Looking forward, our biggest goal is to create larger platforms for creatives. Everything we do is about inspiring others, especially the next generation, to chase something bigger than themselves. We’re hosting our first event in Atlanta on November 22, 2024, and next year, we’re holding *The Artist Collective Expo* in Atlantic City, NJ. This initiative is more than just about us—it’s about giving others the opportunity to shine. As one of our mentors, Aron Faulkner, once said, “Sometimes people don’t need a handout—they need a hand up.” That’s what we’re working towards: creating spaces for those overlooked to reach their own red-carpet moments.

 

 

Photo Credit: Kam and Bek