My best investment in life as an artist so far was getting my master’s degree. I graduated from CCNY with an MFA in film. I first joined this program to keep my visa status as an international student, but what I didn’t expect was the experience and the knowledge I gained these past two years.

Saturday night was my final NY Emmy gala as a producer for CUNY TV. With two nominations, including one for a segment about a woman reinventing her life - a theme that seems pretty fitting - this was a wonderful parting gift to this chapter. I was able to reconnect and catch up with friends and colleagues who have been part of this journey.

The multitalented Nemo directed, produced, shot, and edited his short doc, “El Bastón,” which took center stage at SXSW, DOC NYC, SIFF, and more. “El Baston” secured a Student Award from the National Board of Review and was nominated for both a Student BAFTA and Student IDA!

Armed with an MFA in Film from CCNY, Razid’s journey includes being a freelance project evaluator for POV and an invited jury at the Plural+ Youth Film Festival 2022, hosted by UNAOC and IOM.