Mickies Kiros

Convergence Filmmaker

biography

Mickies Kiros is an Ethiopian-American filmmaker based in Minnesota. His work explores the Habesha diaspora experience, delving into themes of identity, tradition, and unity within the diverse tapestry of Ethiopian cultures and heritage. With a strong foundation in film and movement, Mickies also integrates photography and writing into his practice, using a multidisciplinary lens to further investigate these narratives. His films and scripts have received recognition at international festivals, leading to global collaborations, film cohorts, and travel opportunities across Europe, including Austria and France.

GOALS

Center Ethiopian narratives in filmmaking by collaborating with creators from the Ethiopian diaspora and drawing upon cultural, spiritual, and historical sources to tell fair and inclusive stories.
Advance artistic expression through deeper exploration of Ethiopian film language, storytelling tone, and mature themes such as spirituality, activism, and tradition.
Strengthen technical and pre-production skills including editing, mise-en-scène design, scriptwriting, and production planning.
Expand access to resources including Ethiopian archives, literature, and cultural materials critical to research and authenticity.
Build a professional foundation through grant writing, residencies, public presentation, and a curated digital presence.

Objectives

Project and Cultural Development

Complete current projects that explore Ethiopian dance and spirituality.
Research and develop a new project on religious commentary in contemporary Ethiopian society.
Reconnect with Ethiopian cultural traditions through liturgy, texts (e.g., Kebre Negest), and church experiences.

Community Engagement

Host community-centered gatherings for Ethiopian artists.
Travel to Ethiopia for location scouting, script development, and auditions.
Facilitate cross-generational conversations and collaboration within Ethiopian communities.

Technical Skill Building

Improve editing workflows and shortcuts.
Build strong pre-production habits to ensure visual and narrative consistency.
Learn tools such as Pzaz for organizing film work.
Deepen understanding of set design and natural mise-en-scène.
Participate in workshops focused on dialogue, story pacing, and structure.

Creative Exploration and Experimentation

Stay grounded in Ethiopian film tone and resist diluting cultural specificity for accessibility.
Explore oral storytelling (e.g., teret teret), music, daily rituals, and aesthetics as visual inspiration.

Professional Development

Create a film reel and CV to document past work.
Upload high-quality films to Vimeo.
Launch or improve an IMDb profile and personal website.
Strengthen grant and residency applications through clear pitch development and public presentation.

Networking and Exposure

Expand network across the U.S. and Europe, focusing on Ethiopian communities in New York, D.C., London, L.A.
Seek opportunities in African-centered film festivals and residencies.

Professional Support

Mo Scarpelli – script development and writing mentorship. Known for Anbessa and deep engagement with Ethiopian storytelling.
Itsushi Kawase – research and contextual knowledge of Ethiopian rituals and traditions; fluent in Amharic and Tigrinya.
Beni Matias – guidance on film development, research methods, and collaborative logistics.
Beza Hailu Lemma – insight on filming in Ethiopia, African-centered film festivals, and funding strategies; based in Addis Ababa.