Today we’d like to introduce you to Celina Igwe

Hi Celina, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.

I have been a storyteller since I was very young. I began writing plays for my cousins and making them perform them with me for our family and friends. I went to high school at Las Vegas Academy for theater and went to college for Film. From there, I pursued various opportunities in the film industry, both on my own projects and by contributing to others’ sets. My journey began with small, independent projects where I wore many hats, from directing and producing to handling technical aspects like camera work and editing.

One of my most notable achievements was directing the short film “Noctiluca,” which won several awards at numerous film festivals, including Best Director, Best Actor(s), Best Producer, Best Short Film, and even Best Make-Up Artist. This experience not only showcased my ability to lead a creative project from concept to completion but also taught me the importance of collaboration and adaptability in filmmaking.

Recently, I moved to Albuquerque to immerse myself in its vibrant film community and to seek new opportunities to grow and contribute. My hands-on experience across different facets of film production has given me a comprehensive understanding of the industry’s demands and dynamics. Now, I am eager to leverage this knowledge and my passion for film to make meaningful contributions as a Production Assistant on larger sets, and to continue learning from and connecting with filmmakers in this exciting new environment.

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 road hasn’t always been smooth for me. As a wife and mother, I’ve had to learn how to juggle my family responsibilities with my passion for filmmaking. Balancing these two important aspects of my life has been challenging but also incredibly rewarding.

One of the main struggles has been managing time effectively. Filmmaking is demanding and often requires long hours and intense dedication, which can be difficult to balance with family commitments. There were times when I had to make tough decisions about how to allocate my time and energy, ensuring that I could meet the needs of my family while still pursuing my career goals.

Additionally, finding a supportive network was crucial. There were moments when I felt isolated or overwhelmed, but having a strong support system, both at home and within the film community, helped me navigate these challenges. Learning to ask for help and delegate responsibilities has been essential in maintaining this balance.

Despite these struggles, I’ve found that my experiences as a wife and mother have enriched my storytelling and provided me with unique perspectives that I bring to my work. The journey hasn’t always been easy, but it’s made me more resilient and dedicated to my craft.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?

I am a filmmaker with a strong focus on directing and storytelling. I specialize in creating compelling narratives that resonate with audiences, whether through feature films, short films, plays, or other visual media. My background in theater from Las Vegas Academy and my formal education in Film have provided me with a solid foundation in both the technical and artistic aspects of filmmaking.

I am known for my work on the award-winning short film “Noctiluca,” which has received several accolades, including Best Director, Best Actor(s), Best Producer, Best Short Film, and Best Make-Up Artist at numerous film festivals. This project is one of my proudest achievements, as it exemplifies my ability to lead a creative team, manage production logistics, and bring a unique vision to life.

What sets me apart from others is my ability to juggle multiple roles and responsibilities effectively. As a wife and mother, I have developed exceptional time management and organizational skills, which allow me to balance my personal and professional life without compromising on either. This resilience and adaptability have been crucial in my career, enabling me to tackle challenges head-on and deliver high-quality work consistently.

Moreover, my diverse experiences in both independent projects and collaborative environments have equipped me with a well-rounded skill set. I thrive in creative settings where I can contribute to every stage of production, from initial concept development to the final edit. My passion for storytelling, combined with my practical experience and ability to work under pressure, makes me a valuable asset to any film project.

Ultimately, I am most proud of my ability to inspire and lead a team, bringing together various talents to create something truly impactful. My unique blend of personal and professional experiences allows me to bring a fresh perspective to the film industry, setting me apart as a filmmaker who is not only dedicated to the craft but also deeply committed to the people and stories behind it.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?

I am always eager to collaborate with fellow filmmakers, actors, writers, and creatives who share a passion for storytelling and innovation. I am open to a wide range of collaborations, whether it’s joining a film project as a director, contributing to script development, or assisting with production tasks.

For those interested in supporting my work, there are several ways to get involved. Sharing my projects on social media and spreading the word about my films is incredibly helpful in reaching a broader audience. Additionally, attending film festivals where my work is showcased, or watching and reviewing my films on streaming platforms, provides valuable exposure and feedback.

I am also interested in partnering with organizations or individuals who can provide resources or sponsorship for future projects. Financial support, access to equipment, or even offering locations for shooting can significantly impact the quality and success of my work.

Networking and building connections within the industry are also key. If you’re part of the film community or know others who might be interested in my work, introductions and referrals are always appreciated. I believe in the power of collaboration and community, and I’m excited to connect with others who are as passionate about film as I am.

Pricing:

• 300 per day

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celinaigwe.writerdirector?igsh=bXdkem5ybnNiMXc3&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/QV2uwoPcvNyKgbwQ/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits

Cecilio “Chopper” Martínez
Chris “Sol” Ortiz
Katherine Erwin
Jaron Wallace