Meet Kamaya Walker | Student Film Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kamaya Walker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kamaya, what’s your definition for success?
Success is very personal and individual. You can ask yourself “How does my current life compare to where I was last year?” or “Are the steps I am taking for the betterment of my well-being or career?”. Success should NEVER be measured by someone else. Something I have to constantly remind myself is that comparison is the thief of joy. My success is noot going to look like anyone else’s success, because we are not on the same journey. I have friends getting different positions and accomplishments that may look better or shinier than mine. In all actuality, though, we are not the same. Therefore, you can only measure success against yourself. Also, success comes from what makes you happy. You can be successful in someone else’s eyes and not be happy with it. It takes a lot of self reflection. You have to see what you have done and where you can go next.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I make socially conscious short films, prevalent to the Black experience. What sets me apart is the fact that I try not to bog down my stories with pure sadness. I try to add an appropriate amount of comedic flare, so it is still entertaining. I am most proud of acquiring my internship with Disney. It was an exhilarating experience. I got here today by staying determined and humble. Sometimes we push ourselves too hard and too much and are disappointed when opportunities don’t come immediately. However, artistic journeys take a whole different type of patience. You have to have a steady work endurance, so you don’t burn out too quickly. I also had to learn that I did not have to take every opportunity that came my way. As a Black woman, I have a tendency to pick up everything, so I can always be ahead, even if I can’t handle it all. I learned that I don’t have to be strong all the time and I can take breaks when needed. It definitely was not easy learning how to say no. I overcame it by talking to my therapist. She ultimately was the one that would talk me down and help me realize what tasks were necessary and which had to go. Through this journey, I have learned to always stay ready. This could mean with a resume or an extra camera battery. The film industry moves very fast, so I must stay equipped to ride the wave. I want the world to know that I am a force to reckoned with. Kamera Ready Productions will soon become a household name and all of its work with empower those who experience it!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of the first things I am taking my friends to see is Slutty Vegan. This is the embodiment of a successful Black business. The food is amazing and the vibe is immaculate. Most of my friends are from out of state, so I have to take them to QuikTrip for a pit stop in between venues. We would also go to the Trap Museum, and the High Museum. To end the day, I would take them skating. If Cascade is too packed, I would take them to Golden Glide. Of course there are other places I like, but it would not fit in the day.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to The Village for always believing in me and not giving up on me. They helped me realize that no dream is too big. Also, shoutout to the Illustrious North Carolina A&T State University for providing me with the connections and experiences that have gotten me here today. Last but CERTAINLY not least, I gotta thank God for blessing me with such wonderful opportunities.

Website: kamayawalker.com

Instagram: instagram.com/kamsayshi

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamayawalker88/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkFG3fzP6UqshwWpp5cV7pw

Image Credits
Michole Kemp / ShotbyMK (Blue photo with blond hair) Trenton Lyons (two pics with me in green shirt)