Today we’d like to introduce you to Khyila Salaam.
Hi Khyila, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Well, it all began when I was born in Washington D.C in 2002. My Family later moved to Maryland but my parents used to separate a lot. So me, my mom and my sister would move every now and again. I was a Full-Time Athlete (Volleyball) in High School. I also did the morning announcements and took a TV production class. When I graduated High school, my Aunt Korin Williams was Will Packers EP But she decided to move back to Philly to start her own Production Company (Kronicle Media) and asked me to come up and help her. She later invited me to Atlanta To see and work on my first movie set called “Single Black Female”. I immediately fell in love with the film industry and moved to Atlanta in February to become a Director. About a week After I moved to Atlanta, I got a job at Tyler Perry Studios on a show called “Young Dylan” as a Set PA. At first, I was staying with family but that didn’t really work out so I slept in my car or I would stay with one of my dad’s close friends until I saved enough money to get an apartment. I then started a 6 – month Film Course to learn more about Directing and Editing. About A month ago I moved over to the Costumes Department to eventually become a Set Costumer, while still writing and directing in my free time. As of right now, I’m shooting a show I wrote called “I Got You”. Plan on releasing it in 2023.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, not at all. I’ve lost jobs, friends, money and even more since I moved to Atlanta. Sleeping with people I didn’t know made me very uncomfortable but I kept grinding and now I’m typing this in my one-bedroom apartment.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I work on movie and TV sets all the time to network as much as I can and to continue to be around something I love. I feel that I am not known for anything yet, but I would like to be known for my POV on life and the way I broadcast it to the world. I’m very proud of how I’ve persevered through any challenges I’ve come across. What sets me apart from everyone is how optimistic I am. I don’t let negative thoughts affect my life. I take things for what they are and move on.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Email me Knyreefilms@gmail.com follow me on Instagram @khyilanyree
Image Credits
Asha Taitt IG: @donttiltthecamera photo of me with afro
