Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kahim Sturgis. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Kahim thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Going back to the beginning – how did you come up with the idea in the first place?
That’s a good question. First, I want to express my gratitude to the Canvas Rebel Magazine for giving me this opportunity. Thank you for allowing me to share my story.
Lightrich Studios is my film and animation company. We specialize in film, animation and media graphic content. It’s basically me wanting to spread light and richness into the world in a creative and raw way. The name came by chance. I actually put some names in a hat and Lightrich Studios came out on top.
I thought the name was impactful. It represented me in a major way, wanting to positively impact those around me.
Going in business for yourself is a tall mountain but I think you can fail at any thing at any moment. I just try to keep everything in perspective. Some days are going to go well and others are not. Luckily, my business is centered around what I love to do the most. When it gets difficult, I go back to my craft and focus on sharpening my skills. I get a sense of success and rejuvenation from it.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
So, I was born in Elizabeth, NJ. As a kid I was always into the arts but got heavy into sports in Middle and High School. I enlisted into the United States Navy after High School spending 4 years active duty. When it was time to transition out of the military, I picked up the pencil again. I’ve been writing stories and animating ever since. That was in 2009.
Now, my company helps other businesses and corporations expand their online presence through media production. So, marketing and educational tools. You know, I can’t speak for other artist but the unique thing about me is my upbringing, my experience.
My family resides in the North and the South, so my childhood reflects those two different ways of life. I mentioned earlier I was in the military, so I’m big on discipline and following through. My journey has given me a different perspective of how I view the world and the people in it. It translates to my work and how I solve problems for my clients.
We recently completed our first film, Mr. Franklin, it’s available on Amazon Prime Video, Tubi and other streaming platforms. I’m very proud of that accomplishment. A lot of hard work went into making that project so it’s good to see it come to fruition.
Something to know about me is that I love what I do. The excitement I get from it is like when you have children…I have boy, girl twins so it’s the closest thing I can think of. From the time that they’re born, you watch them grow and evolve. The excitement is in being a part of that experience.
That’s your business, that’s my business. You birthed it, you cultivated it, you nourished it.
I take my baby seriously and I want him to meet other good kids to build and grow together; if you get my analogy. When I’m working with someone I will give my fullest effort to taking care of that project or relationship and expect the same.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
Well, I’m looking to have my own successful production house here in Houston, That’s really been my chief goal since coming to Houston, So just a core place where me and my folks can create. To tell great stories and deliver them in a creative and raw way through the art of film and animation.
On a larger scale, going back to the name of Lightrich Studios. I want to make a positive impact in the lives of our clients, and different communities.
How do you keep your team’s morale high?
I think leading with kindness is the key and then just making sure everyone is there for the right reasons. Also, understanding we’re all here because we want to succeed and letting that idea ground you. Then be willing to work together for the good of the project.
Building morale comes back to things like leading with kindness and showing empathy. Try to keep everything in perspective, If I show people that I care and that I’m invested in them while also moving the project forward, it creates momentum. It’s easier to type than it is to do, but I think it’s important to keep in mind that we’re all here for the same reason…we have to have fun but also get work done.
They should see the energy and effort you put in and get motivated to put in work themselves.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lightrichstudios.com
- Instagram: @KahimtheKreator
- Facebook: @lightrichstudios
- Linkedin: @lightrichstudios
- Twitter: @lightrichstudios
- Youtube: @lightrichstudios
- Other: Watch Mr. Franklin on Amazon Prime Video and other streaming platforms.
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