We recently connected with Aya Aziz and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Aya thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s start with important influences in our lives. Is there a historical figure you look up to?

I love this question. Isaac Newton is a historical figure I deeply admire. His famous quote, “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants,” resonates with me on a daily basis. It reminds me of the strong women in my family—especially my grandmother—who sacrificed a lot to give our family the freedom to pursue what we love. Newton’s work in the 17th century revolutionized our understanding of the world, and it reminds me that the tools and knowledge we need to perfect our craft are often already within our reach. Like Newton, I strive to build on the legacy of those who came before me, and I acknowledge their strength and wisdom everyday as I navigate my own path.

Isaac Newton’s legacy reminds me that everything I need to succeed is already here. It takes teamwork and dedication to create a lasting effect. I often consider the women who came before me as I begin new projects, and if I’m ever feeling uninspired.

Aya , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a photographer, video producer, and sports broadcast director. My journey began in college, where I first immersed myself in the world of video editing. Sharing my work online allowed me to build a portfolio, leading to various freelance opportunities. My entry into the sports industry came through an ESPN internship, which was a pivotal experience that opened numerous doors. That internship not only introduced me to the high-energy world of live sports production, but also ignited my passion for capturing the dynamic intersections of sports, storytelling, and visual media.

I specialize in curating visual experiences for brands and individuals through both photography and video production. My expertise spans a wide range of environments, from the adrenaline of live sports events to the sleek and polished aesthetic of commercial work. Whether I’m capturing a live game or creating branded content, my goal is to tell stories that resonate, inspire, and leave a timeless impact.

I embrace the belief that the greater the challenge, the more profound the reward. Valuing both sides of the business and creative sets me apart as a business owner. I take an analytical approach to each project, ensuring every element is thoughtfully planned, storyboarded, scripted, and executed with precision. My diverse career background — from directing live sports broadcasts to producing commercial work — has nurtured a versatility that enables me to adapt, ideate, and thrive in a variety of creative environments.

I am most proud of how far I’ve come in building my business from the ground up, especially as a Middle Eastern woman in a field that historically lacked diversity. I owe so much of my success to the women before me who fought for the rights and freedoms that have made it possible for me to pursue my dreams. Their sacrifices encourage me daily. I am also proud of the relationships I’ve built along the way, and the balance I’ve achieved between producing high-stakes sports content and curated branded work with grace, patience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Above all, I want potential clients to understand that I approach every project with a deep sense of passion and dedication. I only take on work that truly excites and inspires me because I believe creativity thrives when it is rooted in genuine enthusiasm. I am constantly investing in my own growth through reading, traveling, and keeping a pulse on the latest trends. For me, learning is a continuous journey, and I bring that mindset of growth and curiosity into every project I undertake. My work is not just about creating stunning visuals; it’s about pushing boundaries, telling meaningful stories, and delivering results that resonate long after the final frame.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

As a Middle Eastern woman in a male-dominated industry, I’m driven to break barriers and open doors for others, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Whether producing game-day broadcasts, live sports TV, or working as a video producer and photographer, my focus is on creating impactful campaigns and lasting relationships. My mission is to be a catalyst for change, showcasing the creative talent of Iraqis and highlighting the richness of our culture. I strive to influence perceptions and pave the way for future creatives.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

What started as a YouTube editing hobby soon evolved into a full-fledged career in photography and video production. By sharing personal creative content on Instagram, I attracted brands that align with my vision, who then enlisted me to craft compelling visual narratives for their products. Word of mouth, along with my consistent online presence, was crucial in building my reputation.

I taught myself everything from business fundamentals to invoicing and taxes. Not a glamorous part of the job, but I recall learning it with joy and genuine passion for the work. A key milestone was being recognized by Ahmad Tea, a renowned brand within Middle Eastern, South Asian, and London communities. The opportunity to collaborate with that brand while simultaneously launching my sports career was a deeply fulfilling moment, blending creativity and professional growth. Another milestone was shooting my favorite athletes on my lens, namely Jaylen Brown and LeBron James. It highlighted all the small achievements I’d done to get to this point.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ayaazizcreative.com/portfolio
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aya_aziz/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayaaziz/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ayaaziz?si=bhWqVqVVgcJqLcgD
• Other: Gondola: https://gondola.cc/ayaaziz

Image Credits
Headshots by: Mike Ferdinande. Instagram: @mferdinande