Check Out Tiarra Smith’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiarra Smith.

Tiarra, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I feel like this is a loaded question. I’m not quite sure where I’m at today I’m still figuring it out. But opposed to where I was three years ago I think I have a better understanding of what I want to achieve. I always wanted to work in film and in production I was always making things, always dreamed of making things but I wasn’t sure how. Both of my parents are blue collared workers, never went the college route, so I was paving my own way, and moving blindly. I figured it out. But following college I still wasn’t quote sure how to make those dreams feasible. I worked a job in a daycare, and I taught swim lessons and then one day I saw a post for an internship at a notable commercial agency. I applied, got it and it opened a lot of doors for me. Taught me about the ins and outs of production. While working that industry I hustled on the side and raised money for my own documentary. And just made what I wanted. A professor I had in college told me, if you want to make something, just make it. Who cares? And I have lived by that since.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not. I’ve been laid off, I have gotten more no’s then yeses. And that absolutely takes a toll on you, I don’t care what anyone says. It does.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a producer and film director. I’m most proud of my short film that I produced and directed called Are WE Beautiful? It’s a documentary about the impacts social media has on the black self perspective on beauty.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Unfortunately it’s looking like a war between creatives and AI.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tiarrasmith.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiarrasmith/

Image Credits
Christopher Hernandez June 2024