Ayanna Chalyse, 21, is a South LA-based director-producer and former hooper turning real life into raw, heart-hitting films, often based on her own experiences. For example, her debut short We Gather — inspired by her mother’s cancer journey — put her on the map and proved she’s not afraid to tell the truth on screen. Last year, Ayanna received a Certificate of Congressional Recognition for her resilience, excellence, and impact while pursuing her dreams. Major. 

Now she’s crowdfunding her next project, KALI, a powerful story about a mother navigating the child services system, written with her social-worker mom in mind. Ayanna’s goals are to get her name out there, earn respect for her craft, and one day pick Ryan Coogler’s brain. Her advice for young creatives? Say yes to each opportunity that comes your way, as you never know what could come out of it.

Follow Ayanna on Instagram at @cha.lysee. Check out her website and learn more about her Seed&Spark campaign.

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