Today we’d like to introduce you to Ki-Jana Garmon.
Ki-Jana, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m truly only here by the Grace of God. I was first introduced to filmmaking in 2018, when a friend pitched an idea in my living room that would soon become my first experience bringing a story from script to screen. I instantly fell in love with the process. As an educator, an artist, and a writer, it felt like I had been created for this very purpose. I went on to produce a few more projects and act in several short films, all while still working as a middle school teacher.
By 2020, I had nurtured my love for the craft to a point where it was time to take a leap of faith. I moved my family to Atlanta, Georgia, which opened doors I could only have dreamed of. I had the opportunity to shoot commercials, music videos, pilots, and feature films alongside some of the best in the game. I learned from creative giants like Nykeria Chaney, Mann Robinson, and Malik Ali, and found myself working alongside people I once watched as a fan, from Big Daddy Kane and Treach to Allen Payne and Jasmine Burke. All by God’s design.
I’m currently in post-production on my most recent project, “Friend or Foe,” and one month away from earning my Master’s in Film Production. Once the degree is complete, I plan to jump right back into pre-production. My goal is to collaborate with like minded storytellers dedicated to telling authentic stories.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It was not a smooth road at all, but the bumpy roads tend to lead to the best destination. I got out to Atlanta and called Tyler Perry just like everybody told me to… He ain’t pick up, check the message, or answer the door. I spent the next few months frequenting various studios with my resume and elevator pitch yet each visit led to nothing. This was disappointing to the spirit and pockets but the bills still had to get paid.
I found myself working in the event space, eventually as the Events Manager for Oxford College of Emory University. Working with some great people, we were able to create a number of memorable events for the community and campus. Creating the annual Oxford College Summer Experience Program would be the most notable. Allowing rising 10th and 11th graders to experience college life on the campus. Similar to a program I attended that led me to FAMU. Where I would become the first in my family to earn a degree. What was initially perceived to be a “drought” as an actor became the most fruitful season of my life. I did good work but most importantly, provided stability for myself, my wife, and her Great Grandmother whom we had the pleasure of caring for during this time.
After I finished up my first national tour I landed in another season of “wait”. A series of no’s from the industry led me back into the education field as Director of the after school program and middle school social studies teacher at a local charter school in East Atlanta. As you would expect, this too became a season of harvest. My passion for educating and developing the youth into the leaders of tomorrow had never diminished. I only gained a greater love for making films. Had it not been for this season of wait, I wouldn’t have had the pleasure of serving in the lives of each of my students. I’m thankful for the no’s that led me there.
I recently heard a quote on social media that resonated with me, “when God has you in a waiting season, do like waiters do and serve.” By His grace and following of His Word, He allowed me this privilege during each of these seasons and many more like it. Speaking candidly, I’ve had seasons where I didn’t know where my next meal would come from or if I would have somewhere to lay my head. But by faith, the Lord always provided for me. Even looking ahead, I have no idea what’s next but good or bad I look forward to the lessons and the blessings to come.
“The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.”
Psalms 37:23-24 NLT
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m an actor, independent filmmaker, and production coordinator. I bring ideas to life through intentional and deliberately detailed choices. Creating a production, be that film/tv, live or recorded events, or even a daily routine, takes time and preparation. I specialize in doing the work necessary to make that happen. I’m logistic oriented with a creative mindset, and my most recent project, Friend or Foe, reflects each of these attributes.
Friend or Foe is a proof of concept disguised as a thesis film. It’s a short film I wrote, directed, produced, and performed in. I’m most proud of it not only because of what it is creatively, but because of what it took to make it happen. I coordinated the entire production, transporting a cast and crew from Orlando to Tampa, housing fourteen people comfortably for a five day production. The cast and crew showed up willing and ready to work, making each day fulfilling and productive. This project represents everything I’ve grown into as a filmmaker and as a leader. It’ll be premiering at the Enzian Theater in Orlando, FL July 23, 2026.
What sets me apart is that I genuinely care about the project, about the people, and about the process. I’m not just trying to get a production across the finish line. I want everyone involved to feel supported, informed, and valued. I want everyone who will witness the production to feel like they are a part of it. Most importantly I work for the approval of my Lord and savior Jesus Christ. This being at the core of who I am leads me to be nothing more than a servant to all. I do the small jobs with an equal measure of vigor as I do the big ones. I show up everyday with self determination, kindness and respect for others, and free of ego. I believe these qualities to be the foundation of any ideal team member and leader.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
I’m going to have to cheat this answer, because I had a second childhood in my 20’s. I didn’t meet my father face to face until I was 15. After more than 10 years later, I had the chance to live with him. I had recently found out he was put on dialysis so after a few discussions, I decided to move in and help him in whatever way I could. I would wake up everyday and declare that I was “getting my childhood back” as we would plan for the day.
My favorite memory particularly during this time is a moment we spent sitting in his open garage playing chess. Both of us fronting like we knew what we were doing. “Love is stronger than pride” by Sade played on the mix and it was such a clear indicator of our relationship. I revisit this memory the most, but especially since his passing last year. It was just two days after Father’s Day, but I couldn’t help but feel gratitude in my grief for the memories I had to cherish. Imagine my surprise when I learned he too was a creative. A writer, rapper, and owner of his own media company. I’m grateful to say that I am continuing his dream and honoring his legacy.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @KijanaKhali – https://www.instagram.com/kijanakhali
