Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Keirra Ewah. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Keirra, thanks for joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

Thanks for having me! I’m a storyteller whose voice is shaped by both my African American and Nigerian heritage. Having parents from two different worlds gave me a unique perspective on life and, by extension, on storytelling. But my creative journey didn’t begin in a studio or on a film set. It all started when I was just three years old, captivated by the distinct baby sound that Timbaland used in Aaliyah’s song “Are You That Somebody”—according to my mom, that’s where it began.

Keirra, 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?

As a kid, I wasn’t just putting on impromptu performances for family. I was writing songs that became schoolyard anthems, experimenting with beats on my laptop, enrolling in dance classes, and even auditioning for Disney Channel. Theater and musical theater consumed a lot of my time, but it wasn’t until I was 12 that my passion for film truly ignited. I watched Slumdog Millionaire and was blown away by Danny Boyle’s direction—the cinematography, the music, the storytelling—it all resonated with me in a profound way. That night, I sat silently in the car, deep in thought, and when I got home, I Googled every person involved in the film. I was certain that filmmaking was the path I was meant to walk.

At 22, I produced my first major film, Elephant!, a two-year project directed by Chinwe Okorie. Leading a team of talented individuals, we filmed on a breathtaking private school campus in my hometown of Austin, Texas—a city renowned for indie films. Elephant! was an artistic triumph, earning a spot at the prestigious Austin Film Festival. One of the most powerful moments came on our last day of production, when the mother of our lead actress was moved to tears. She was overwhelmed seeing her daughter on a set led by two women who looked like them. That moment reaffirmed for me why representation matters and that our work isn’t just about telling stories—it’s about showing others what’s possible.

Before all of this, I was a student at Tennessee State University, where I was fortunate to learn under some incredible mentors. Their unwavering support pushed me to take bold steps, leading me to direct my first music video—an AfroBeats project that won “Best Music Video” at the Denton Black Film Festival, a milestone I’ll always treasure.

Now at 27, I’m a full-time TV producer! Every day I get to tell and create stories that contribute to the cultural fabric of Houston. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of working with Hollywood icons, supporting local businesses, and bringing African culture to Houston through the screen. But no matter where TV takes me, film remains my true passion. Last year, I would wrap up projects at the TV station and literally rush straight to a film set, mostly producing amazing short films for Nigerian producer, writer, and director Imole Ladipo. She’s helping to bridge the gap between Hollywood and Nollywood. And working alongside her has offered tremendous learning experiences for me.

There has been some exciting news surrounding the projects I have worked on, and there’s always something new brewing in my mind. I can’t wait to share what’s next!

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

The journey has definitely had its bumps. Financial setbacks have sometimes stopped me from producing the way I’d like, and figuring out who I am (and who I’m not) has been a bit of a maze. There was even a time I couldn’t watch the Oscars without getting a little salty—just a reminder of the stories I want to tell, and the fact that they deserve to be celebrated too.

But here’s the thing: I’ve learned this whole journey is more of a marathon than a sprint. With age (and a little experience), I’ve embraced the process. Producing is heavy—like, “I’m-carrying-the-world-on-my-shoulders” heavy. There have definitely been moments I thought about quitting. But then I remember why I started: storytelling. And that feeling when a project clicks? It makes the struggle worth it.

Juggling a full-time job while perfecting your craft is a whole mood. The industry doesn’t leave room for mistakes, and when you’re wearing 10 hats, something is bound to slip through the cracks. I’ve learned to set boundaries with myself and others, because, surprise, you can’t do it all. But my tribe keeps me grounded, reminding me that I’m not alone in this crazy ride. And hey, every challenge is just another step forward, right?

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

There’s a book called We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers, and it taught me a lot about advocating for yourself—something I still struggle with today. It also emphasized the importance of having an abundant mindset, which is crucial for creatives who often work “out of love.” By that, I mean creatives who pour their heart and soul into their craft, often without charging what they’re truly worth, because they’re passionate about their work. But the truth is, when you don’t value your own efforts, it’s hard to expect others to. This book helped me understand that creating from a place of love doesn’t mean sacrificing your financial worth or your time.

I recommend this book to anyone who finds themselves falling into the “I can’t” or “I won’t” mindset. A big part of what I’m learning is how to create healthier mindset shifts. On the journey to greatness, the way we think plays a major role in our success.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Afrocosbae
• Linkedin: @KeirraEwah
• Twitter: @Afrocosbae

Image Credits

photo of me with 2 other ladies sitting down in denim outfits + the last photo of me standing in a TV studio with other women while I wear a denim skirt on (credit: Josef Pierre)

Black and white photos (Credit: Robby Rob T.)

Photo of me sitting down with a masks on (Credit: Déborah Valcin)