Conversations with Tamika Melvin

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tamika Melvin

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m Tamika Melvin currently residing in Raleigh NC, a New York Times best selling author. I self published four books, a magazine and a cookbook in remembrance of my late mother Angela Melvin-Freeman. I currently embarked on my journey in Filmmaking because I love the art of storytelling and seeing my work come to life. I started my production company Famm 1st Film Production in 2022 and my filmmaking studio Mek StoryTaler Media this year January 2024.
As a young girl, I grew up captivated by television shows and movies so much that I would actually write out whole episodes on movies by the actor’s part. People I have admired are Alice Walker, Terry McMillan, VC Andrews, Spike Lee, Tyler Perry, Issa Rae, Lena Waithe, Mara Brock Akil, Tressa Azarel and many more.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I would not say the road has been smooth but also I have been taking my time. I always say “what God has for you will be yours.” I have been making sure I get in rooms and events that will elevate my career in the film world. I have been working behind the scenes as a Production Assistant, Assistant director, Wardrobe, BTS -behind the scenes camera person, set design, crafting (providing food), and sometimes all at once.
Some of the struggles I have faced along the way has been getting the financial backing and investors. If you’re not known in the film industry it’s hard to get people to invest in your vision. However, with the influx in streaming platforms and independent fillmmakers in the past six years it’s become easier to see more projects come to life in theaters and on television.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m Tamika Melvin the CEO of Famm 1st Film Productions and Mek’s StoryTaler Media studios. I have over 15 years of direct work experience with writing and filmmaking. That has now, led me to create my own films to showcase my talent for bringing real stories to life. I also have a publishing company where I’ve helped over a dozen authors self publish their own books. Writing has always been my passion since grade school and still is until this day.
I’m a New York times best selling author and Essence book of the month winner. I loved writing books but I wanted to create films that provide a voice for the voiceless. I want to tell real life stories and inspire women all over that we can make it in this industry and be impact to other women. I’m proud of starting a foundation for my three sons and granddaughters. I hope that they will continue to build the legacy of Famm 1st Films so we can provide opportunities for others who want to create content. What sets me apart is I write all my content and tell stories of my real life struggles that other writers may not. I have the talent to draw my audience in my stories just within a few pages.

What were you like growing up?
Growing up in Brooklyn New York was challenging but also something I wouldn’t change for anything in the world. Living and growing up in New York during the 80s and 90s crack epidemic showed me a lot. I loved art in all forms from music, dance, writing, theatre, acting and stage plays, In New York I got to experience that type of artistry almost every day whether it was in my home, my neighborhood, or public transportation.
I loved family gatherings and music which we had every weekend. I danced in the block parties and events around the city. I also like to experience different cultures food and traditions which was always around in Brooklyn. My best friend was Columbian and Puerto Rican so I saw how differently her mom did things in their home than my mom did in ours. I got along with most people but I also didn’t play when it came to protecting myself. I was outgoing, friendly, and talented.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mek_dastorytaler/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557014120172
• Twitter: @Famm1stfilms
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Famm1stFilmandMedia