Getting To Know Stephanie Ibrahim
As part of the PICHA #BalanceForBetter Series, we get to know Stephanie Ibrahim (@illucreatemultimedia) - a young Ghanaian cinematographer and filmmaker. As CEO of Ilucreate Multimedia, Stephanie specialised in motion pictures from the National Film and Television Institute (NAFTI) and versed in video editing, motion graphics, directing and sound design.
Did you envision being in the industry growing up?
Yes, I actually did. I grew up learning how to use the camera since primary school through to high school, where I studied Visual Arts. I later got into NAFTI to major in filmmaking.
Biggest influence?
First and foremost, my religion, I’m a Christian. I draw a lot of inspiration from my connection with God, family, friends and mostly my clients – they help shape my path. I’m really inspired by their reviews and the experience of working with them which swells up my resolve to do more. I was greatly influenced by my parents because of their experiences with photography. They had great love for photography that rubbed on me quite well. Taking pictures comes to me naturally and it has always been my hobby.
Greatest Achievement?
I’m a proud entrepreneur in filmmaking. I’m happy I’ve been able to make a living out of it and running a content creation start-up, Illucreate Multimedia. Plus the feeling of creating employment which I believe is contributing to economic growth of our country is one that really excites me.
Tell us about your work
I’ve done quite a number of documentaries, profile interviews, weddings, and events productions for clients. I recently shot a documentary for Newmont Ghana Gold Limited. I’ve also worked on some corporate documentaries and artist interviews.
Challenges in industry?
One of the biggest problems bedevilling this industry is the apparent lack of trust for women – people don’t trust the abilities of women to pull off photography tasks successfully. They’re often stereotyped as weak, feeble and less creative. The notion that the industry is ‘’ a man’s industry’’ is what is undermining our efforts as women. Half of our women are required to work twice as hard as their male counterparts before they land bookings and other deals.
Advice to young women considering this career?
I’ll advise them to find like-minded women who can mentor them into becoming what they aspire to be in the creative industry.
Where will you be in the next five years?
I’m not quite sure what where I see myself in the next five years. I believe the industry has been a learning curve for me, and I’m still watching my path being shaped. But, certainly I know I still be doing more movies and keeping focus on business as it flourishes.
Message to women on Int'l Women’s Day
The world needs more women in the creative arts industry. Therefore, we need to encourage ourselves as women and work hard until we achieve gender balance in this industry.