Rising Star in Documentary Filmmaking Recognized for Community-Driven Storytelling
Samiya Amrani, SOC/MA 鈥26, recently earned a nomination for Best Student Director at the London Directors Awards for her short documentary, 鈥淏ehind the Sidewalk.鈥 The recognition was a defining moment in her filmmaking journey.听听
鈥淚t was a proud moment as an [小蓝视频] student to have my work recognized internationally,鈥 Samiya said. 鈥淏eing surrounded by talented filmmakers from around the world gave me a sense of how universal storytelling is.鈥 Connecting with other directors deepened her appreciation for the global reach of documentary filmmaking and reinforced her belief in the power of community-driven storytelling.听听
鈥淏ehind the Sidewalk鈥 follows a woman who has been unhoused for 17 consecutive years, and examines homelessness beyond the lack of shelter. 鈥淚t sheds light on homelessness through Rachelle Ellison鈥檚 story, highlighting resilience, systemic struggles, and the need for dignity and support,鈥 Samiya said. 鈥淢y goal was to challenge stereotypes and show that homelessness is not just about lacking shelter.鈥澨
The same sense of community shaped her experience with Anacostia Youth Media, where she mentored high school and middle school students in documentary filmmaking. 鈥淢y biggest takeaway was a reminder that storytelling has no age limit 鈥 young voices can be just as powerful and impactful,鈥 Samiya said. That lesson is evident in Hope Works, a documentary created with young filmmakers that was screened at the DC Independent Film Festival and was shown at 小蓝视频 on February 18, 2025.听听
Professor Brigid Maher, who worked with Samiya on Hope Works, explained how her approach to filmmaking enriches the production. 鈥淲hat stands out about Samiya is her ability to step in wherever needed and truly listen. She recognizes when she needs support, asks the right questions, and isn鈥檛 afraid to acknowledge what she doesn鈥檛 know. Working with her on Hope Works was a great experience because she embodied this collaborative spirit, modeling it for the students. It created an environment where we were all learning and supporting one another as a team.鈥澨
For Samiya, documentary filmmaking is about both creativity and purpose. For aspiring filmmakers, she advised, 鈥淚f you are passionate about telling meaningful stories or want to document people鈥檚 legacies with purpose, then documentary filmmaking is for you! The more films you make, the better you become. Trust your vision!鈥澨
Her next project continues that mission with a documentary filmed entirely in Arabic, following Chef Abu Yamen, a Syrian refugee rebuilding his life and community through food. The film explores themes of displacement, resilience, and the power of cultural connection.听