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

Hi Najah, why did you pursue a creative career?

I chose to embark on a career in film and photography because I find so much joy in the act of being behind the camera. The process of planning, executing, and finally sharing a complete visual narrative or beautiful pictures is exhilarating. It’s the perfect blend of busyness and creativity that makes every moment enjoyable, and that’s what makes this artistic journey so much fun for me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Hi, I’m Naj, and I currently work as a Real Estate photographer and videographer. My journey began with a full ride bowling scholarship at North Carolina A&T State University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Mass Media production in 2016. Following that, I spent two years at WRAL, a local news station, before pursuing an MFA in Film and Television at Scad-Atlanta, graduating in 2021. Initially, I aspired to a career in TV and film, but I soon realized it wasn’t the life I saw for myself. In 2022, I discovered Upper Echelon Visuals, a company that allowed me to continue my photography passion and enhance my videography skills. This change also granted me a flexible, stress-free life, enabling me to focus on my passion project, “It’s Not Just a Game: Last Place Champ,” and pursue my dreams in competitive bowling.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Awesome! I would like to give a huge shoutout to my parents without their love and support I would not be the person I am today, also my best friend because she’s always there for me. Next, God has really guided me in life and kept me on the right path with many beautiful doors being opened when I least expected it. The bowling community has really been a huge support system as well which is how I got connected with GG Gazmine Mason and how Last Place Champ came about. Lastly, have to give my Producer Nora Long a big shoutout because she believed in the vision I had for this documentary series and has dedicated so much of her time to keep this going.

Website: https://www.njo-productions.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/itsnotjusta.game?igshid=YTQwZjQ0NmI0OA==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100052455499191&mibextid=b06tZ0

Other: https://www.itsnotjustagame.org/

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