Daily Inspiration: Meet Melika Jamshidabadi

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melika Jamshidabadi.

Hi Melika, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I made my first short film at 16, which motivated me to pursue filmmaking. I worked on larger film sets, refining my skills and connecting with talented individuals. My latest film, “When I Grow Up” premiered and won an award at LA Shorts Fest this past July! This film was especially important to me because it discusses important topics of oppression and human rights while showing the story of what it is like growing up as a girl in the Middle East. Growing up in Iran, I share a firsthand understanding of the struggles women face every day in the region, so I am driven to use my filmmaking skills to tell their stories and raise awareness on these issues. I’m grateful for the support and excited to continue telling captivating stories.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The film industry has traditionally been male-dominated, leading to biases and stereotypes that can hinder opportunities for female filmmakers. The industry’s perpetuated biases often serve as roadblocks for aspiring female filmmakers and these preconceptions have affected the opportunities that are available to female filmmakers. Breaking through these barriers and proving ourselves can be difficult and require a lot of tenacity. Despite these challenges, many incredible female directors such as Greta Gerwig with her amazing success have paved the way for women in the film industry. There is a growing movement towards inclusivity and diversity, which opens up more opportunities for aspiring female filmmakers!!

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve always enjoyed writing and directing as well as shooting and editing my own films, but I hope to specialize in more specific areas in the future for larger films! My dedication lies in inspiring more women in the film industry and using filmmaking as a tool to raise awareness on crucial subjects. I hope to utilize filmmaking as a means to address significant societal issues and highlight the potential for art to start conversations and drive change. The cinematic medium has a unique ability to engage emotions and perspectives, making it an effective tool for raising awareness on subjects that often require more attention.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @melicka @melikajamshidabadi

Image Credits
Alberto E. Rodriguez Philip Faraone