Directing Career
Naheem Adio first discovered his passion for film in the 6th grade, when he took his first cinema class. He always envisioned being a director. His interest in film became a reality when Naheem enrolled in The Ghetto Film School in the South Bronx, where he received most of his film-making training.
He recalls: “ I wouldn’t be the same filmmaker without attending The Ghetto Film School. It was the best initial film training anyone could ask for. They do not teach you film making, they have you experience it.”
In 2008, Naheem Adio joined the notable Creative Writing department at City College to hone his craft and learn from seasoned, prize-winning professionals. Since attending the program, Naheem grew in skill and creativity. With a Canon EOS 7D in hand, Naheem chose to start directing music videos for buzzed-up acts of New York City’s underground scene. This led to music videos for Homeboy Sandman“Lightning Bolt”, WordSpit “JoyStick Madness” and many more. His music videos has been featured on major outlets including but not limited to: Okay Player, 2dopeboyz, Nah Right, Hip Hop DX and more. Naheem also had the opportunity to work with several organizations and businesses, including General Mills and AdColor, the first cross-industry initiative dedicated to celebrating professionals of color and diversity champions in the advertising, marketing & media industries.
Among his favorite filmmakers, Naheem Adio lists: Spike Lee, John Singleton, Michel Gondry, Jim Jarmusch, Darren Aronofsky, Quentin Tarintino, Chris Milk, Spike Jonze. He also lists Chris Milk, and Spike Jonze as his favorite music video directors.
Selected Filmography
“Lightning Bolt. Lightning Rod” – Homeboy Sandman [Music Video] (Jan 2009)
“Joystick Madness” -Wordspit [Music Video] (Aug 2009)
“EARFLUENCE” – Presice [Music Video] (Dec 2010)
“Super Model” – Maurice Kirya [Music Video] (Feb 2011)
“Bureau of Conscious Intervention” [Short Film] (July 2011)
“Get Ya Head Right” – Presice [Music Video] (April 2012)
Awards And Nominations
An advocate for conscious art and social justice, Naheem Adio has received several awards and recognition:
Creative Artists Agency (CAA) scholarship (2008)
Winner of Bromley Communication’s 1st Annual 15 Minutes of Fame or 30 Seconds of Glory (2008)
Film grant from the National Board of Review
