Inspiring Stories from Our Graduates

Discover how Directing Mastery Academy has helped aspiring filmmakers achieve their dreams in Atlanta's dynamic film industry. See real success stories and learn about their journeys.

Explore Our Courses

Meet Our Successful Alumni

Amia Rodriguez, award-winning short film director

Amia Rodriguez

Amia graduated from Directing Mastery Academy in 2023 and quickly made a name for herself in the independent film scene. Her short film, "Echoes of Edgewood," a poignant story set in Atlanta's historic Edgewood neighborhood, won the Best Short Film award at the Atlanta Film Festival.

  • Best Short Film - Atlanta Film Festival
  • Official Selection - Sundance Film Festival
  • Nominated - Georgia Film Critics Association Award
Ben Carter, television director for 'Atlanta Nights'

Ben Carter

Ben, a 2022 graduate, landed a directing role on the hit television series "Atlanta Nights" just months after completing his studies. He credits Directing Mastery Academy's focus on practical, hands-on experience for his quick success.

  • Director - "Atlanta Nights" (Season 3, Episodes 5 & 8)
  • Shadow Director - "Stranger Things" (Season 4)
  • Featured in "Georgia Entertainment Weekly" as an emerging talent
Chloe Nguyen, commercial director and founder of 'Nguyen Productions'

Chloe Nguyen

Chloe is a 2024 graduate who has successfully transitioned into the world of commercial directing. She founded her own production company, Nguyen Productions, which creates visually stunning and impactful ads for local Atlanta businesses.

  • Founded Nguyen Productions, a successful commercial production company
  • Directed commercials for prominent Atlanta brands, including "Sweet Stack Creamery" and "Grant Park Coffee Roasters"
  • Awarded "Rising Star" by the Atlanta Advertising Association
Javier Lopez, documentary filmmaker and social activist

Javier Lopez

Javier, a 2021 alumnus, is using his filmmaking skills to create powerful documentaries that address social issues in the Atlanta community. His latest film, "The BeltLine Story," explores the impact of the BeltLine project on local neighborhoods.

  • Directed "The BeltLine Story," a critically acclaimed documentary
  • Awarded grant from the Atlanta Film Society for social impact filmmaking
  • Screened his film at the Plaza Theatre and the High Museum of Art
Isabelle Dupont, music video director for emerging Atlanta artists

Isabelle Dupont

Isabelle graduated in 2024 and quickly found her niche directing music videos for up-and-coming artists in Atlanta's vibrant music scene. Her visually creative style has garnered attention and propelled several artists to wider recognition.

  • Directed music videos for several charting Atlanta artists
  • Featured in "The Vinyl District" as a director to watch
  • Nominated for "Best Music Video" at the Atlanta Music Awards
Kwame Nkrumah, independent film writer and director

Kwame Nkrumah

Kwame, a 2020 graduate, is now a celebrated independent film writer and director. His debut feature film, "Crossroads of Cascade," was a breakout success at local film festivals and is now streaming on several platforms.

  • Wrote and directed the feature film "Crossroads of Cascade"
  • "Crossroads of Cascade" won "Best Indie Film" at the Georgia Film Festival
  • Mentorship award from The Directors Guild

Student Testimonials

"Directing Mastery Academy provided me with the practical skills and industry connections I needed to launch my directing career. The instructors are passionate and supportive, and the curriculum is relevant and up-to-date. I highly recommend this academy to anyone serious about directing."

- Marcus Greene, Independent Film Director

"The best decision I ever made was enrolling in Directing Mastery Academy. The hands-on training I received there gave me the confidence to direct on real film sets. The network I built during my time there is still vital to me today."

- Aisha Khan, Television Commercial Director

"I was hesitant to invest in a directing program, but Directing Mastery Academy exceeded all my expectations. The instructors went above and beyond to ensure my success, and the resources available to students are unparalleled. The collaborative atmosphere was incredible, and I learned as much from my peers as I did from the instructors."

- David Lee, Short Film Director

Video Interviews with Our Alumni

Watch Amia Rodriguez discuss her award-winning short film and how Directing Mastery Academy helped her achieve her goals.

Hear Ben Carter share his experience directing episodes of "Atlanta Nights" and his advice for aspiring television directors.