Our Team.

Lilian Welwood is an international filmmaker. In May 2023, she wrapped a PSA she shot and directed in Australia on school shootings in the US. Lilian is dedicated to bringing unique narratives to life on screen. Drawing inspiration from her own life and family members, she is passionate about telling women’s and AFAB stories, as well as immigrant and single-parent stories.

Emily Karpowicz is a third year filmmaker at American University with a passion for visual storytelling. Taking on the role of Assistant Director for Cycles, Emily is super excited to combine her love for curating meaningful stories and connecting with others. Emily is also the recipient of American University’s Vision Award for Best Undergraduate Short Film with her first year film entitled “Dysphoria.”

Mira Celik is an international independent film producer from Istanbul. With a Bachelor in Film,TV and Advertising under her belt, she is currently achieving her Master’s at American University in Film and Media Production. During the pandemic, Mira co-directed ”Gullum”(2021), a celebrated documentary on Istanbul’s queer nightlife, premiering at Cannes Short Film Festival.

Shu-tong Murray is an independent filmmaker and cinematographer. She is super excited to be the Director of Photography for this project. She has a true eye for cinematography and holds herself to a high standard. Shu-tong is always carrying a camera around, taking pictures and videos to see the world from a different perspective. Her detailed-orientated approach makes for stunning visuals. In 2020, she won an award at The Seat Awareness South Coast Cape and Islands Film Festival.

Marialejandra Ariza-Florez is an upcoming art director ready to test their artistic skills on any set. comes from a graphic design specialization, Marialejandra has art directed short films such as, “Dye Mama” and “The Informidable Death of My Mother” and has aided in the creation of the brand identity for Amfest, a campus wide music festival at American University.

Lizzy Bovée is an Asian American filmmaker and artist presently studying in Washington DC. With a passion for an array of creative mediums, Lizzy has experience in animation, photography, graphic design, fine art, live sound production, and music studio production. Currently focused on student filmmaking, they work as an Art Director and storyboard artist.

Taemin Kim is a Korean American filmmaker and editor based in Washington D.C. Taemin is currently producing and directing their first film, a dramatic narrative short called “Rest Stop”, which they also wrote. They have extensive experience as an editor and on-set sound recordist for student productions and projects, as well as a passion for experimental filmmaking techniques. Taemin will graduate from American University in May 2024 as a double major in Film and Media Arts and Literature in the