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

Hi Amadeuz, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My thought process behind starting Building Seven Media Company was to have complete control over my creative works and to have control over my own destiny. In retrospect, I can see now that one of the main inspirations behind the name “Building Seven Media” was the seven years I spent working as a contractor at Google Headquarters in Mountain View, CA, inside a corporate environment. Prior to Google, my background had been in wireless sales, mostly in retail and later in business-to-business. Working at Google Headquarters, which also included YouTube and Google SFO, ultimately inspired me to re-enroll in college and earn my B.A in Radio, Television, & Film from San Jose State University. After graduating, and with the skills I picked up working in one of the most professional corporate environments, I was motivated to utilize my skillset for my own benefit, instead of leaving my career in the hands of another employer. My original intention was to be brought on board the Google Video Team, but even with several employee and HR recommendations, this did not pan out. Google started a “Business Views” program, similar to Street View but that would allow you to actually venture inside businesses while on Google Maps. The requirement was that you had to have your own business, either a sole-proprietorship or LLC. This prompted me to start my company, Building Seven Media Company, in 2014, where I would start off as a Google Business Views photographer. Eventually, I left the program and began to pursue my real passion, which was film.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My company, Building Seven Media Company, was conceptualized with the idea of improving the ethnic image of African people, to educate African people on their true history, which has been deliberately hidden from us, and to produce film content exemplifying, and in alignment with, our tradition of high achievement that covers the span of over 5,000 years of recorded history. My company focuses on the combination of music with film, as my creative background actually started with music production. I began recording and producing music around 2002, and became a certified Audio Engineer in 2005. I released three albums between 2006 and 2008 but eventually became frustrated with the music industry and no longer wished to compromise my art. I would soon be introduced to film, which allowed me to have much more creative control with my art, eventually leading me to found Building Seven Media Company and later to produce my first documentary film “Out of Darkness” in 2015. Starting my company was an easy choice, but it was the most difficult undertaking due to not having the “safety net” of a steady income. It requires a special dedication and focus, along with an unwavering belief in yourself, and an uncompromising belief in your ability. The path to success was a true test of character and required me to overcome my fear of failure, although to me there is no greater feeling than being able to support yourself, and your family, through your creative ability. After seeing the success of my first film, “Out of Darkness,” and becoming aware of my potential to change lives, I knew that I was living out my purpose.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would definitely take them to Medu Bookstore, then to Nubian Bookstore for some African history! Next, to the West End of town, specifically JB’s Record Lounge, and then maybe to the Zen Bar for some fresh smoothies. We would definitely have to check out Little Five Points and also Black Art in America, owned by Najee Dorsey, for some art and culture. We’d probably have to hit up the Trap Museum for balance! Last, for food, I’d have to go with Urban Wings, or if we’re feeling a little more fancy, then Oreatha’s At the Point.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to shout out my mentors (jegnas) Anthony T. Browder, Prof. Kaba Kamene, and Prof. James Small. These are the three individuals who have guided me through my process of enlightenment and my introduction into African Sacred Science (the African Sacred Spiritual System). I would also like to shoutout Rahiem Shabazz for welcoming me to Atlanta and for making me feel at home in Atlanta. Lastly, to Medu Bookstore and Nubian Bookstore for being among the first to showcase my films, Out of Darkness and Out of Darkness: Heavy is the Crown.

Website: https://www.outofdarknessfilm.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outofdarknessfilm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/outofdarknessfilm

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/buildingse7en

Other: Online store: https://these7encollection.com

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.