Today we’d like to introduce you to Keirra Ewah
Hi Keirra, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hiiiii! How far? How you dey? *that’s a little Naija pigeon to kick us off* I’m Keirra Ewah-Washington, a storyteller shaped by both my African American and Nigerian roots. Growing up with parents from two different worlds has given me a unique lens through which I see and tell stories. But my journey into creating didn’t start on a TV or film set—it actually began in 2000, when I was a three-year-old obsessed with the iconic baby sound that music producer, Timbaland, used in Aaliyah’s song, “Are You That Somebody”.
I wasn’t just a kid putting on shows for family. I was writing songs that other children (and adults) loved to sing. I was taking dance classes, making beats on my laptop, and auditioning for Disney Channel. I spent a lot of time in theater and musical theater, but my real spark for cinema came at age 12, when I watched ‘Slumdog Millionaire’. I sat in a movie theatre mesmerized by Danny Boyle’s directorial style. The shots, the soundtrack, the storytelling—everything hit me in the core! That movie lit something inside me, I was even silent the entire car ride home! Then when I got home, I turned off my pink Nintendo DS, and Googled every person involved in the film. I just knew that telling stories through film was what I was meant to do.
At 22 years old, I produced my first major film, Elephant! a two-year film project directed by Chinwe Okorie. I led a huge team of talented cast and crew members as we worked on a massive, but stunning, private school in my hometown of Austin, Texas. Austin is the mecca for indie films. Elephant! was beautifully executed, earning its rightful place on the screen at the legendary Austin Film Festival! On our last day of production, the mother of our lead actress was shedding legit tears because her daughter got to witness being on a set led by two women that looked like her. It was a reminder of the importance of representation and that our work is bigger than us—it’s about showing people what’s possible.
To back track, during my time as a college student at Tennessee State University, I was under the mentorship of amazing professors. They inspired me to take bold creative leaps, which led me to direct my first music video- and the music video was for an AfroBeats track! That music video won “Best Music Video” at the Denton Black Film Festival—a huge milestone for me.
Fast forward to today: I’m 27, a full-time TV producer for one of the most influential media companies in America, telling stories (or what my Mom likes to call “mini movies”) that shape Houston’s landscape. I’ve worked with Hollywood legends, supported local businesses, and brought a slice of Africa to Houston through TV. But no matter how much fun I’m having in TV… film will always have my heart. So, I still produce for film when I can. There’s honestly so much more brewing for me—both in my head and actually in production. I’m grateful that a higher power has entrusted me with such powerful gifts, and I can’t wait to share even more with the world.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey has been far from easy. I’ve faced financial constraints that have limited my ability to produce the way I envision. Crazy story… but there was a time when I couldn’t even watch the Oscars, the very thought of it was painful—a stark reminder of the stories I yearn to share and the undeniable truth that my narratives, and those of others around me, deserve that kind of celebration. It has been a roller coaster ride but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
As I strive toward bigger goals, I’ve come to realize that this journey is not a sprint but a marathon. With age and experience, I’ve learned to embrace the process, savoring each moment without the urgency to rush. Being a producer carries immense responsibility; the weight of decisions often feels heavy, and there were moments when the thought of quitting crossed my mind. Yet, in those challenging times, I remind myself of the passion that sparked my journey in the first place—the love for storytelling and the joy of witnessing a final product that resonates deeply.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m eccentric… every idea usually starts with a dance in my room! I will put on headphones and literally lock into the music (say a prayer for my ear drums y’all). The type of dance I do, usually in private, helps me unlock ideas, but it’s a wild, free, kind of dancing that no one needs to see! Dancing feels like medicine for my soul. I’ve been doing this daily since like middle school. Every idea I have (whether it’s for TV, film or just a visual concept) is birthed from a tune, a rhythm, or a beat I hear. And as much as I care about storylines, I care just as much about the music that accompanies it.
Beyond just coming up with concepts, I wear many hats: I’m an editor, a producer, and a wildly imaginative writer… I daydream a LOT.
I’ve moved past waiting for someone in the industry to scout me out, because I realize how fortunate I am to live in an age where social media empowers bringing ideas to life right from our phones. Artists like me no longer have to wait for opportunities—we can grab em’ by the throat with just one upload to TikTok!
I am most proud of the representation I bring to the industry, and the young age in which I was able to start doing it. Being American-Nigerian, and a Black woman with West African roots, gives me a dope perspective to tell stories. I get to blend different cultures and experiences, which makes my outlook unique and my voice stand out in a real way. The emotional response from the mother of one of our young actresses during the production of Elephant! reminds me of the importance of visibility and inspiration in my work.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can work with me, collaborate with me, or support me in several exciting ways! I’m always looking for innovative projects that highlight diverse stories and experiences. And now I embrace working on projects with more seasoned industry pros! Those interested in collaborating can reach out if they have creative concepts that align with my vision, whether it’s in film, television, or music videos.
For those in the industry, networking opportunities, sharing resources, or participating in events can strengthen our collaboration. Finally, I’m deeply grateful for any support through social media platforms—sharing my work, spreading the word about my projects, or simply engaging with my content can make a significant difference.
Together, we can create compelling stories that resonate and inspire, in Houston and beyond!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @KeirraEwah
