Meet our Film Intern, Niyah!

This fall, we’ve been fortunate to welcome a VCU Film student as a film intern! She has been helping with projects like revamping our tour videos and starting our Shop Talk Series, plus interviewing staff and creating content for our social media pages. Please read below to learn more about Niyah.

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Hi, there!

My name is Niyah. I’m a senior attending Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of the Arts and am currently pursuing a BFA in film with a minor in creative writing. When I’m not filming, I enjoy exploring the many James River trails, working on screenplays, voice acting, and playing video games. “Learning through play” has become an essential philosophy for me. Regardless of what I’m up to, I try to find a lesson and inspiration in every aspect of my day-to-day.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to be the CMoR’s photography intern this autumn. Much of my work revolves around mental health, self-discovery, the impact of childhood, and connecting with nature. This fits well with their mission of educating children through engaging play and providing them with a safe, welcoming environment to discover the world. Working here has been all smiles as everyone is friendly and passionate about creating a strong foundation for children (and parents) to grow.

Each member of the staff has a unique background and approach and they all communicate to bring the best out of each other to accomplish their goals. Film being such a collaborative industry, it helps to be around such effective team-building. They have a strong support system, which they’ve graciously extended to me. I hope to spread that support to others going forward.

After graduation, I plan to continue writing and directing my own films and work in the film industry as a professional location sound mixer. My ultimate goal is to open a film studio centered around producing fresh stories told from unique and underrepresented perspectives. I’m also inspired by the museum’s community outreach programs. I love the idea of providing new opportunities to younger people looking to create and inspire. I also hope to host workshops introducing the power of film and storytelling to those who would have few connections or little access otherwise.

Interning at the Children’s Museum has been an endearing learning experience. I feel more confident in my ability to edit and produce quality content, work autonomously, and handle multiple creative projects at once. Candidness is another theme in my work and each day at the museum has given me plenty of practice capturing the wholesome fun and precious first moments here. I hope everyone can cherish their time at the museum as I do.