Meet Ilyas Ibrahim Aho | filmmaker , 3d artist and video editor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ilyas Ibrahim Aho and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ilyas, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
I’d say integrity is everything.
that has been my principle with which i value every step i take in my journey .
Every frame I shoot, every story I tell, has to be honest not just to my audience, but to myself. I don’t create to please trends or fake emotions; I create to tell the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Integrity means I won’t compromise the message just to make it more ‘marketable.’ My lens has to capture the real essence of our people, our culture, and our struggles not a watered-down version for the world’s approval.

It’s about keeping my work pure, my vision consistent, and my promises real. When I say my film stands for something, it has to stand. That way, whether I succeed or fail, I know I stayed true to my art, my purpose, and the people I represent.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Pausing my college education to pursue my passion wasn’t just a decision, it was a leap into the unknown. I walked away from the traditional path, knowing the risk, but believing deep inside that my calling was bigger than a degree alone could define. I wanted to tell stories through film, photography, and media that could touch hearts, amplify voices, and inspire change.

The reality, though, was humbling. I didn’t have my own camera. In fact, I didn’t own a single piece of professional gear. Every project I worked on in the beginning meant borrowing equipment from friends, often rushing against time to learn, shoot, and return it before I lost my chance. I come from Africa, from a middle-class family who simply couldn’t afford the tools I needed. There were days I questioned if this dream was even possible.

The challenges stacked up. Not owning gear meant missing opportunities. Lack of audience trust meant some people saw me as “just another young dreamer.” Even my own family, who I love deeply, struggled to see the vision at first. They wanted stability for me, something safe. But slowly, as they saw my determination and the little wins along the way, they shifted. Today, they are my backbone, supporting me with everything they have.

Still, the journey wasn’t without heartbreak. I’ve had equipment stolen by people I trusted, I’ve faced deliberate sabotage of my work, and I’ve watched others try to discredit my name to potential clients. There were moments I wanted to quit, but I didn’t. My work spoke for itself, and over time, people began to see that my dedication was unshakable.

Through resilience and faith, doors started to open. I began working for big brands both inside and outside of Africa opportunities that once felt far out of reach. But no matter how far I’ve come, I’ve never forgotten the nights of frustration, the times I edited videos on a borrowed laptop, or the mornings I woke up wondering how I’d make it through another month in this industry.

I share my story because I know there’s someone out there right now going through what I went through, maybe worse. They’re working with borrowed tools, fighting for recognition, or hearing “you can’t” from people they love. To that person, I say: don’t give up. You might not have everything you need right now, but you have the fire, and with faith, hard work, and integrity, you can beat the odds.
Even today, there are things I’ve faced that I can’t fully talk about, but one thing I’ll say is that I have never let go of God as my source of motivation and strength. Every step of my journey has been covered by grace.

By God’s mercy, in 2019, I established Monument Creative Studios, my multimedia company. Our mission is more than creating it’s about nurturing young talents, giving them the resources, mentorship, and inspiration I once wished I had. We’re here to help people dream boldly, create fearlessly, and inspire endlessly.

I am still growing, still learning, still chasing excellence, but every project, every frame, and every story I tell is proof that you can start with nothing and still build something worth remembering.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend visited for a week, we’d start with gaming marathons and street food jollof, suya,ugali,some indian food and fresh pineapple juice. We’d play soccer at a local pitch, then hit the beach for volleyball, jet skis, and seafood by the shore.

We’d hike scenic trails for breathtaking views, in Tanzania,Kenya,Bali and more . Explore museums and heritage sites, and dive into rich African, and other continental cuisine A boat ride to hidden islands with crystal-clear waters and fresh mango juice would be a must.

For me, it’s all about blending fun, culture, nature, and great food and making every moment unforgettable.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I give all glory and thanks to God. Every blessing, every opportunity, and every step in my creative journey has been guided by His grace. Without Him, none of this would be possible.

I am eternally grateful to my parents, Mr. Ibrahim Aho and Mrs. Abiba Mohammed, my backbone, my unwavering support system, and my greatest cheerleaders in life. Your sacrifices, prayers, and guidance have shaped me into who I am today. To my brothers and sister, you are truly God-sent. Your love and belief in me keep me grounded and motivated.

A special appreciation to my cousin Umar for his constant encouragement, and to Shepherd, the CEO of Vision X Studios, for his support that continues to push me creatively.
I also want to give a heartfelt shoutout to HAEC–3GC INC for the life-changing opportunities they have given me from expanding my Pan-African mindset to connecting me with HBCUs and opening doors that have reshaped my purpose and vision.

To my friends and colleagues, anyone who has ever recommended me to someone, shared a kind word about my work, or celebrated my wins. I am deeply thankful. Your belief in me is priceless.

Finally, I appreciate the constant support and encouragement from Aaliyah Brown, Dr. Beverly Booker, Dr. Norma Day-Vines, Mrs. Gayna Malcolm, Dr. Nicholas Philips, Kanya Guffie, and so many other important people whose names I may not have mentioned here, but who hold a special place in my heart.
Thank you all

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigzero.gm?igsh=ZXpkandsbGliOTcw&utm_source=qr

Image Credits
watson Family