We recently connected with Amanda Ramirez and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, thanks for joining us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

One of the most significant risks I’ve taken was deciding to pursue filmmaking full-time. While I had a stable foundation in television and theater, shifting to independent content creation felt like stepping into the unknown. The decision wasn’t just about changing mediums but about telling stories that mattered deeply to me, even if they didn’t fit conventional molds.

The moment that solidified this decision was when I came across Christina Green’s story for Concrete Rose. The idea of creating a documentary short exploring themes of incarceration and societal reintegration felt both urgent and personal. However, the risk was substantial. Independent filmmaking is resource-intensive, and diving into such a complex and sensitive subject requires emotional, financial, and professional vulnerability.

I funded the project myself, worked to build trust with Christina, and balanced my creative vision with the realities of indie filmmaking. Despite the challenges, the risk paid off. “Concrete Rose” resonated with audiences, opening doors to meaningful conversations about social justice and second chances.

This risk taught me the value of following my passion, even when the path isn’t clear. It reinforced my belief that the stories worth telling often require the greatest leaps of faith.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am a filmmaker, producer, and storyteller with a passion for creating work that challenges perspectives and celebrates resilience. My journey began with a BA in Theatre from Long Island University and an MA in Communications from New York Institute of Technology. My early career saw me performing on television in roles on *All My Children*, *As the World Turns*, and *Canterbury’s Law.* These experiences gave me a strong foundation in storytelling, which I carried into my work behind the camera.

As a filmmaker and producer, I specialize in telling stories that amplify underrepresented voices and tackle socially relevant issues. My projects range from documentaries like *Concrete Rose*, which explores themes of incarceration and reintegration, to award-winning productions like *Bibhu Mohapatra: Spring/Summer 2021*, starring Academy Award® Winner Arianna DeBose. I also produce narrative films, television programs, and podcasts, with a focus on creating content that resonates emotionally and sparks dialogue.

What sets me apart is my dedication to authenticity and collaboration. Whether capturing the triumphs of a marginalized community or exploring complex human relationships, I aim to tell stories that inspire, empower, and connect. I’m most proud of my work’s impact in fostering conversations around social issues and giving a platform to voices that deserve to be heard.
My goal is not just to entertain, but to leave a lasting impression that challenges audiences to see the world differently.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being creative is the ability to tell stories that resonate deeply with people, spark conversations, and inspire change. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about taking an idea, a feeling, or a lived experience and transforming it into a piece of work that connects with others on a human level.

Seeing the impact of my projects—whether it’s through a viewer who feels seen and understood, or someone motivated to think differently about an issue—is a reward that goes beyond awards or recognition. With films like *Concrete Rose*, which explores themes of resilience and second chances, I’ve been able to amplify voices and stories that are often overlooked, fostering empathy and understanding in the process.

Additionally, being an artist allows me to explore new perspectives and push my creative boundaries. It’s a constant journey of learning, self-discovery, and growth, and knowing that my work has the potential to leave a meaningful mark is incredibly gratifying.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Absolutely! There are several resources I wish I had discovered earlier in my creative journey that could have saved time, energy, and even some missteps. Here are a few:

Grants and Funding Opportunities: Early on, I wasn’t aware of the wide array of grants and funding programs specifically for independent filmmakers and creatives. Organizations like the Sundance Institute, New York Women in Film and Television, and various state arts councils provide support for emerging artists, and knowing about these sooner would have eased some of the financial challenges of indie production.

Film Festivals and Labs: Festivals like Tribeca and labs like Film Independent offer incredible platforms to showcase work and connect with industry professionals. Their programs for emerging filmmakers, including mentorship opportunities and project development labs, are invaluable for honing skills and gaining exposure.

Production and Post-Production Tools: Resources like ShotDeck for visual planning or platforms like Frame.io for collaborative editing can save countless hours in pre- and post-production.

Creative Networks and Communities: Early access to networks like IFG America, BIPOC Filmmaker groups, or Latine creative collectives would have offered a stronger sense of community and guidance. Collaboration and mentorship opportunities within such spaces are transformative.

Legal and Business Support: Understanding contracts, intellectual property rights, and distribution deals is crucial in the creative world. Resources like Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts or free workshops by arts organizations could have helped me navigate the business side of filmmaking more confidently.

Crowdfunding Platforms: Platforms like Seed&Spark, designed specifically for filmmakers, are great tools to raise funds while building an audience for your work.

Having access to these resources earlier would have helped me focus more on creativity and less on navigating unfamiliar terrain. Sharing these tools and knowledge with others is now something I prioritize in my work.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/Amanda.at.Grayscale
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grayscaleentllc
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grayscaleentllc
• Other: https://www.threads.net/@grayscaleentllc