Friday, March 6, 2026
Washington, D.C. – The DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) proudly recognizes Aaliyah Idrissa, a 16-year-old filmmaker whose early passion for storytelling has evolved into a powerful creative voice and a rising force in Washington, DC’s film community.
“Aaliyah Idrissa represents the brilliance, discipline, and creative excellence that defines Washington, DC’s next generation of storytellers,” said LaToya Foster, OCTFME Director and DC Film Commissioner. “At just 16 years old, she has demonstrated an extraordinary level of vision and leadership, through writing, directing, producing, and bringing her stories to life with intention and purpose. We are especially proud to recognize Aaliyah as our Filmmaker of the Month during Women’s HERStory Month. She is proof that young women in our city are shaping the future of film.”
Aaliyah’s creative journey began with a childhood love of writing and cinema. Her dedication led her to weekly screenwriting classes and ultimately to acceptance into the prestigious 16-week Black Girls Film Camp program. There, she developed her short film Rewinded, guiding it from concept to script to director’s chair. The film has since screened at multiple festivals, breaking national barriers and earning her opportunities to participate in professional industry settings and speaking panels.
Following her success in the program, Aaliyah independently created her acclaimed short film The Definition of a Hero, serving as writer, director, producer, cinematographer, editor, and actress—collaborating closely with her father. The project showcases her versatility, leadership, and commitment to authentic, character-driven storytelling.
Balancing her creative pursuits with academic excellence, Aaliyah is a DCPS student at School Without Walls with plans to study film or screenwriting in college. She has also completed a college-level course at George Washington University, studying History of World Cinema while maintaining her regular high school coursework. “On the thrilling road to success, I believe this is a major landmark!” Aaliyah shared.
Aaliyah’s achievements embody the spirit of Women’s HERStory Month, honoring bold, innovative women who are shaping the future of their fields. Without formal film school training, she discovered her passion organically through writing and a deep appreciation for cinema, proving that vision, discipline, and creativity can open doors to extraordinary opportunities.
Aaliyah’s film credits include Rewinded (2025), for which she served as writer and director; and The Definition of a Hero (2025), a project she wrote, directed, produced, edited, shot, and starred in. Her work continues to gain recognition, with The Definition of a Hero scheduled to screen at Colorado’s Durango Independent Film Festival on March 6, 2026. She is also currently in pre-production for a new drama short film, further expanding her creative portfolio.
Audiences can connect with Aaliyah and explore her work through her Instagram (@lensofaaliyah), her film trailers on YouTube, and by contacting her directly at [email protected].
Click HERE to catch Aaliyah’s exclusive interview on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 10:00 am ET available on our SoundCloud, Apple Podcasts, Spotify.
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About FILMMAKER OF THE MONTH
The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) launched the “Filmmaker of the Month” initiative as a vehicle for highlighting the talents and creative contributions of filmmakers that make the District of Columbia their home. The “Filmmaker of the Month” initiative is part of OCTFME’s mission to elevate the national and international profile of the District’s talented filmmakers.
***If you know of a filmmaker that would make a great future “Filmmaker of the Month,” please send OCTFME recommendations using this nomination form.
About OCTFME
The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME), an award-winning District of Columbia Government agency, leads the city’s extensive efforts to build and support a sustainable film, music, and entertainment creative economy and labor market. Additionally, OCTFME serves as the city’s cable television service provider regulator and as the customer service hub for cable subscribers.
The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME), an award-winning District of Columbia Government agency, leads the city’s extensive efforts to build and support a sustainable film, music, and entertainment creative economy and labor market. Additionally, OCTFME serves as the city’s cable television service provider regulator and as the customer service hub for cable subscribers.
OCTFME’s extensive portfolio includes:
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The District’s government cable access channels District Council Channel (D.C.C), the District of Columbia Network (D.C.N), and the District Knowledge Network (DKN)
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D.C. Radio (96.3 HD4), OCTFME’s owned and operated digital radio station, in partnership with Howard University’s WHUR.
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District of Columbia Entertainment Network (D.C.E), OCTFME’s 24-hour streaming platform available worldwide on ROKU, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV as well as iPhone and Android mobile devices (download the D.C.E Network App or at D.C.ENetwork.com).
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The handling of all of the District’s filmmaker production needs including permits, city services, and logistical support, job placement assistance, workforce development and the D.C. Film, Television, and Entertainment Rebate Fund (D.C. Rebate Fund).
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Providing additional support to the creative community through the Creative Affairs Office (CAO) and Mayor Muriel Bowser Presents: 202Creates initiative. CAO showcases and preserves the District of Columbia’s rich creative communities throughout all 8 Wards.
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