NYFA

NYFA Signs MOU with Future Film Institute at the 2025 Beijing International Film Festival

Beijing, April 20, 2025 — Dr. Joy Zhu, Executive Vice President for Global Partnerships at the New York Film Academy, participated in the 2025 Beijing International Film Festival, where she attended the unveiling ceremony of the newly established Future Film Institute and signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore future collaboration opportunities.

The event highlighted a shared vision for the future of filmmaking, particularly the growing role of artificial intelligence. A diverse range of activities focused on film, animation, and AI drew global film experts, cultural industry leaders, and higher education professionals, who gathered to discuss the integration of AI technologies into the cinematic arts. Dr. Zhu’s participation reflects NYFA’s ongoing commitment to international exchange and its mission to prepare the next generation of storytellers to succeed in an increasingly dynamic creative landscape.

Autism in the Arts Event in Honor of April Autism Awareness Month

In honor of April being Autism Awareness month, NYFA New York students had the opportunity to meet, hear from, and see work from talented actors and filmmakers, Sue Ann Pien and Bella Zoe Martinez, along with producers Andy Raffi and Melissa Martinez-Raffi and moderated by NYFA faculty member and Producer Darren Dean. The screenings of Once More, Like Rain Man and an episode of As We See It, followed by a Q&A focused on how characters with Autism are portrayed in film and TV and the challenges that actors with Autism face when auditioning for roles.

Actors, filmmakers, and family from the short film Once More, Like Rain Man, posing with NYFA President Michael Young and faculty member, Darren Dean

Sue Ann Pien is best known for her lead role as Violet in Amazon Prime’s original series, As We See It, which garnered her two awards nominations, including a Gotham Award nom for Best Performer, and a nomination for Best Lead Performance at the Film Independent Spirit Awards. Pien directed the film short Once More, Like Rain Man which was written by and acted in by Bella Zoe Martinez.

Once More, Like Rain Man follows Zoe, a 13-year-old Autistic actor, as she frustratingly bounces from one audition to audition in attempts to be cast as autistic character – only to be told she’s, “Not what we’re looking for”.

Based on the real-life experiences of Belle Zoe Martinez, the film shares a timely, authentic, and often painful window into the world of how people with Autism and other disabilities are depicted in the studio system and Hollywood.

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After the screenings, the guest speakers participated in a Q&A session where NYFA students were able to ask questions about the film, tv episode, and the industry. The guest speakers talked about their work, as well as, the portrayals of autistic characters and the experiences of actors and filmmakers with Autism in Hollywood and the film and tv industries.

Chinese Consul General Chen Li Visits NYFA in New York

On February 24, Mr. Chen Li, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in New York, visited the New York Film Academy’s New York Campus and met with NYFA President Michael Young. They discussed the Academy’s longstanding collaboration with Chinese higher education institutions and explored ways to enhance cultural exchanges, promote faculty and student visits, and expand academic partnerships.

Consul General Chen praised NYFA’s hands-on learning approach and strong reputation in film and media education. During his visit, he toured NYFA’s Filmmaking, Photography, and Musical Theatre departments, engaging with students and faculty representatives.

The visit reinforced NYFA’s commitment to international collaboration and underscored the vital role of cross-cultural exchange in shaping the next generation of creative professionals.

NYFA Hosts Xiamen University for the North American Premiere of “My Teacher and Me”

On February 27, 2025, the New York Film Academy proudly co-presented the North American Premiere of “My Teacher and Me” with Xiamen University. This documentary explores how education can break the cycle of poverty, highlighting the transformative impact of learning on individuals in China.

The event brought together Prof. Xiaohong Li, Deputy Dean of the School of Film at XMU, and Wanyu Liu, Deputy Director of the Office of International Cooperation and Exchange at XMU, alongside Dan Mackler, Senior Vice President/CSO/Dean of NYFA Los Angeles, and Dr. Joy Zhu, NYFA Executive Vice President for the China region. Representatives from the Education Office, Chinese Consulate in Los Angeles, also attended, underscoring the importance of global collaboration in film education.

NYFA Hosts Xiamen University for the North American Premiere of "My Teacher and Me"

Beyond the screening, the visit deepened the partnership between NYFA and Xiamen University. The delegation toured NYFA’s Los Angeles campus and the Universal Studios backlot, engaging in meaningful discussions on future academic and cultural initiatives. This exchange further strengthened ties between the two institutions, laying the groundwork for new opportunities in education and filmmaking.

Andre Royo Inspires NYFA Students at New York Film Academy Guest Speaker Event

In an inspiring and thought-provoking guest speaker event, renowned actor Andre Royo visited the New York Film Academy (NYFA) at the New York City campus to offer students and faculty insight into the world of acting, storytelling, and the entertainment industry. Best known for his compelling portrayal of Bubbles in the critically acclaimed HBO series The Wire, Royo’s career spans a wide array of television and film roles including shows like Empire, The Path, and How to Make It in America. He is currently venturing into directing and producing.

During his visit, Royo discussed his journey in Hollywood and the experiences that have shaped his career with moderator Darren Dean, NYFA instructor and award-winning Producer, Writer, and Director. Royo talked candidly about his iconic role as Bubbles in The Wire, a character that has left an indelible mark on television history. Royo spoke passionately about the importance of portraying characters with depth, authenticity, and empathy, especially those who are often marginalized or overlooked in mainstream media.

The Wire became a show that helped break through stereotypes and reach a broader audience due to the empathetic and humanizing portrayals of the characters. Royo said that “It became the show that became a social message – if you care about your community, you care about politics, you care about the disenfranchised, then you had to watch The Wire. . . It became a social political show that was a must see for everybody.”

Andre Royo Q&A with faculty member Darren Dean

NYFA students were able to ask questions and Royo took the time to offer invaluable advice to the next generation of aspiring filmmakers, actors, and storytellers. Royo encouraged students to take risks and step outside of their comfort zone. “The only way you learn is to not be afraid to fall. Go out there and leap and take chances,” he urged. He advised students that trusting your team, trusting the collaborative process, and being humble will lead you to become a great filmmaker. “You have to allow magic to happen and to trust your fellow artists.”

Andre Royo’s guest speaker event at the New York Film Academy was a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity, persistence, and passion in the world of entertainment. For NYFA students, it was an important opportunity to learn from one of the most respected actors of his generation.

NYFA Welcomes Delegation from CSCSE

On February 7, the New York Film Academy (NYFA) welcomed a delegation from the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) to its New York campus. CSCSE, a public institution under China’s Ministry of Education, has long provided comprehensive services for overseas students, returnees, and international students in China while promoting global educational exchange and cooperation.

During their visit, the delegation experienced NYFA’s immersive, hands-on approach to film, media, and performing arts education through a filmmaking class overview, a live musical theater performance, and a photography demonstration. Discussions between CSCSE and NYFA explored potential opportunities for student exchanges and cultural collaboration. The delegation praised NYFA’s dynamic learning environment and its strong support for international students.

NYFA remains committed to expanding global partnerships, enriching students’ educational experiences, and fostering cultural understanding through the arts.

New York Film Academy Looks Back at the 2024 Highlights

As the clock winds down on 2024 and ushers in a brand new year, now is the perfect time to take stock of our accomplishments.

New York Film Academy (NYFA) alums, students, faculty, and staff continue to amaze us – their collective achievements are no less impressive than what we set out to achieve this year! To recognize these successes, let’s toast one final time with this engaging infographic, which reveals NYFA’s triumphant highlights from the past 12 months!

Q&A with Bob Ahmed

Meet Pakistani-American writer and director Bob Ahmed, an alum of NYFA’s short-term filmmaking workshop. We recently caught up with Bob to discuss his career and latest project.

1. Congratulations on your success, Bob. Let’s start with your award-winning short, Tikkun Olam, which you wrote and directed.

Tikkun Olam is really close to my heart. It’s about a young boy in D.C. who sees a homeless veteran on the streets and decides to do something small yet powerful to help him regain his dignity.

I moved to D.C. a few years ago, and I remember being struck by the number of homeless people I walked by every day. There was this one moment, though, when my brother saw a homeless man lying unconscious in the street while people just walked by. It really shook me – because I was one of those people who walked by every day. Around that time, I also read an inspiring book, To Heal A Fractured World, which explains the concept of Tikkun Olam—healing the world by helping others beyond your own circle. That was the spark for the film. In 2021, it was recognized by the California State Assembly as “a groundbreaking film” and is now streaming on Amazon Prime.

2. Now you’re working on a new feature film, Adam’s Fire. What is that about?

Adam’s Fire is about a young boy named Adam who is seeking revenge after his mother is killed. But as he forms an unexpected bond with a brave girl and finds spiritual guidance from a wise neighbor, his world is turned upside down. He has to choose between vengeance and something that challenges everything he thought he believed in. It’s a story of growth, self-discovery, and the power of human connection. I feel that the journey Adam goes on reflects the internal battles we face.

3. The film is shot at a beautiful farm in West Virginia. How did you choose this particular location?

I was actually scouting locations in the mountains of Virginia when I got completely lost. My phone died, and I had no reception, so I just kept driving until I stumbled upon this incredible, fairytale-like farm surrounded by misty mountains.

And there, standing like something out of a timeless story, was a fifth-generation, dashing, farm owner – a man whose presence seemed to embody the spirit of the land.

I got out of my car, walked up to him and said, “Hi, I’m a filmmaker, and I want to film a movie here.” And instead of being thrown off the property, he welcomed me in with genuine warmth.

That moment with this farm owner was more than just a chance encounter. It felt like a scene straight out of the story we were trying to tell. The way he carried himself – his kindness towards a stranger, hospitality, and the pride he took in his land – showed a quiet heroism we often overlook. To me, he represented the unsung American heroes that most people don’t know about.

Oh, and it wasn’t until later that I realized I wasn’t even in Virginia at all – I had somehow ended up in a different state altogether – this was West Virginia!

4. What do you hope the audience will take away from the film?

I hope that Adam’s Fire can spark something in people. It’s about trauma, healing, and the power of connection across cultures. I’ve never seen a film explore these themes quite like this before. My goal is for the audience to walk away feeling inspired, thoughtful, and maybe even a little healed.

5. Tell us a bit about working with the actors.

Working with our actors was such a rewarding experience. One of our leads, Chris Alvarez, is a former Navy SEAL, and he had this incredible dedication that rubbed off on all of us. One morning, I showed up five minutes late for our 5:30 AM call time, and Chris didn’t hesitate to discreetly give me an inspiring talk on why being on time is so important – not just for you, but for everyone around you. He taught me that punctuality is a way of respecting the team. From that point on, I made it my mission to arrive before 5:30 AM. On one occasion, I even got there before Chris did! It’s funny how those little moments can teach you so much about discipline and respect.

6. Where are you and your team in the process? What are the next steps?

We’re in the final stages of post-production and hoping to release the movie later this year. This film comes from our teams’ hearts, and I’m especially excited to share it with the NYFA community.

7. Before we let you go, can you tell us how NYFA influenced your film career?

Before going to NYFA, I thought success was all about individual accomplishments. But when I got there, I quickly realized that success isn’t just about personal goals—it’s about connecting with others and having a purpose that’s bigger than yourself. NYFA taught me the importance of community, of working together and creating with others who share the same passion. That lesson has stayed with me ever since.

NYFA wishes Bob all the best as he takes his new project out into the world.

Shanghai Normal University Visits NYFA

On November 4, 2024, the New York Film Academy’s New York City campus hosted students and faculty from Shanghai Normal University (SHNU) for a one-week documentary filmmaking workshop, Seeing New York. The special program was launched with a signing ceremony between leaders of both institutions, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their ongoing collaboration.

Throughout the week, SHNU students explored the art of documentary filmmaking under the guidance of NYFA faculty, immersing themselves in New York’s vibrant culture and learning NYFA’s signature hands-on approach to storytelling. The workshop concluded with a graduation ceremony where students showcased their completed works, celebrating a week of creative growth and cross-cultural exchange.