The goal of the Columbus Black International Film Festival is to showcase quality films from the African Diaspora in the City of Columbus.
Cristyn Allen-Steward
Co-Producer
Cristyn Allen-Steward is a visionary filmmaker dedicated to elevating Black voices and creating compelling films for the independent screen. With a strong background in production and a passion for storytelling, she collaborates with producers, directors, and screenwriters to bring engaging narratives to life.
Cristyn's educational background includes a BA in Creative Writing from Miami University and an MFA in Motion Pictures and Television from the Academy of Art University.
Cristyn's skills extend to writing and directing, as demonstrated by her work on "Blue Rebellion'' (2020). She led every phase of script edits, built production crews, and collaborated with actors to cultivate performances that aligned with the script. Additionally, she worked closely with the Director of Photography on storyboards and film aesthetics. Other film credits include, “Holy Hustle,” “A Family Affair,” and “Into the Woods.”
Cristyn's dedication and leadership are exemplified by the founding of the Columbus Black International Film Festival, where she created a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and promoted Black independent cinema.
She has received prestigious awards and grants, including the "Spirit of Columbus Award" from The Columbus Foundation (2018) and the "Visionary Award" from Create Columbus (2019). Cristyn has also been a recipient of grants from organizations such as the Columbus Foundation, the Greater Columbus Arts Council, and the Ohio Arts Council, which recognize her artistic contributions and support her creative endeavors.
Craig Marcell Campbell
Co-Producer
CM Campbell, is an artist and educator, with experience in cartooning, gallery curation, and event organizing.
With a passion for comics and a dedication to promoting the art form, CM Campbell is currently co-chair of programming for Cartoon Crossroads Columbus (CXC) since 2021. This role allows him to curate and shape the artistic offerings of CXC, platforming and celebrating the art of cartoonists of which range from veterans in the field of comics as well as emerging talents. In addition to his curatorial responsibilities, CM is a professor at Columbus College of Art and Design, where he looks to expand the conversation and develop a well-researched exploration of the comics medium.
Through his published works, notably his contributions to Hyperallergic from 2018 to 2021, CM has looked to explore the inner workings or the life of a professional artist as well the extent in which the art world/industry works.
CM received his BA in Studio Art Practice with a minor in Sexuality Studies from San Francisco State University in 2015. He further expanded his artistic expertise by earning an MFA in Comics from California College of the Arts, exploring feminist theory and pop culture analysis to examine the interplay between identity and societal expectations.
CM Campbell's artistic journey continues to inspire and push the boundaries of creativity, as he remains dedicated to amplifying diverse voices and exploring the rich possibilities of the storytelling and narratives in art.
Kingsley Nyarko
Director of Photography
Kingsley Lims Nyarko, Assistant Professor and Chair of Film & Video at Columbus College of Art and Design, overseeing departmental agenda and efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion, from curriculum to hiring.
With a Master of Fine Arts degree in Film Directing from Ohio University, Nyarko has worked on numerous international short films and feature films, including notable projects such as "Black Wall Street Athens," "The Right to Remain," "Kwame's Dance," and many more. His work delves into diverse themes such as culture, race, identity, religion, and family life, reflecting his deep understanding of human experiences.
Nyarko's expertise extends beyond filmmaking, as he has also made significant contributions to the field of sound design, collaborating with renowned Cinema Audio Society Member, John Butler. His commitment to excellence has garnered him two Silver Telly Awards in 2022, recognizing his exceptional talent and artistic achievements.
His passion for teaching and the film industry, has led Mr. Nyarko to take on the instructor role for the Film Columbus and CCAD Teen Script Workshop/Competition and the city producer of the 48 Hour Film Project in Accra Ghana. He is also an advisory board member of Film Columbus.
Nyarko's passion for storytelling and his ability to capture the essence of diverse narratives have earned him accolades and recognition at film festivals worldwide. His work continues to resonate with audiences, provoking thought and sparking conversations about the complexities of the human experience.
Seth Moherman
Director
Seth Moherman is a highly skilled filmmaker hailing from Columbus, Ohio, known for his proficient editing, gritty low/no budget horror projects, eerie sound design, and composing. With an impressive career spanning over 15 years in the television and film industry, Moherman has honed his expertise in the art of editing, making significant contributions to numerous projects over the years. His keen eye for detail and storytelling has earned him a reputation for delivering compelling and visually captivating narratives.
Seth graduated from The Ohio State University with a BA in Video/Media Production before working at ABC6/Fox28 as a shooter and editor. He has made significant contributions as a photographer, with his work published in esteemed publications like the New York Times and Columbus Underground.
While Moherman's primary focus lay in editing, he has also ventured into the realm of directing, overseeing a range of independent and personal projects. His directorial work showcases his ability to bring stories to life, capturing the essence of each project with a unique creative vision and technical finesse.
Among Moherman's notable works are "Citadel: The Birth of the LeVeque Tower" (2011), a captivating exploration of architectural history, "Extinct or Alive" (2018), a thrilling documentary series, and "Road Hauks" (2017), an engaging television show.