We recently had the chance to connect with Haleem Muhsin and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Haleem, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
Lately, I’ve felt called to step into the role of being a pillar in my community. At first, I was afraid of what that meant because being seen as a role model requires a level of responsibility I didn’t always feel ready for. For a long time, I struggled with not taking my own advice, and that made the idea of leadership intimidating.
Through therapy, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of myself, and that shift has been life-changing. Learning to get out of my own head has opened the door to growth, and what I’ve been able to accomplish since then has been nothing short of fulfilling and deeply gratifying.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Haleem Muhsin, founder of EAM Productions LLC, a Miami-based film and TV company. My journey began with curiosity about what it meant to be “on the other side of the TV screen.” That led me to hands-on work as a student camera operator at Barry University, and eventually into producing everything from corporate campaigns to feature-length documentaries.
One of my proudest projects is Interstate, a documentary I co-produced and co-directed with my colleague Oscar Corral, that explores how the federal highway system displaced African American communities nationwide. It world premiered at the 42nd Miami Film Festival and has since screened nationally, reminding me why storytelling has the power to shape culture and preserve history.
Most recently, EAM Productions launched Film.Cen.Tric, a monthly event series where “the unconventional meets cinematic expression.” Every fourth Friday we spotlight one local filmmaker, giving them space to share their story without competition, only celebration. In just over a year, we’ve showcased nearly 20 filmmakers and built a platform that helps creatives not only show their work, but also gain life skills like pitching and public speaking. We close each year with the Film.Cen.Tric Film & Arts Festival, and we’re now developing both a podcast and a three-month residency program to help the next generation of South Florida creatives step confidently into the industry.
At the core, my mission is simple: I don’t just make films, I create outcomes, and I’m passionate about helping others do the same.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Who I was before the world told me who I had to be… that’s an interesting question. Before I started paying attention to the “status quo”—especially as an African American male—I was a dreamer. Unapologetically myself, and believed I could achieve anything I set my mind to without limitations.
But once I began to care about what others thought, and was constantly reminded of my skin color, I realized the world wasn’t necessarily for me, but often against me. That realization fueled anger, and slowly, the dreamer I once was became overshadowed by pessimism.
Therapy helped me break out of that rut. It allowed me to dig deep, confront the root of my issues, and move forward with a renewed sense of self. Now, the world’s perception no longer defines me. I know who I am, and I recognize the value I bring: to provoke thought, to inspire, to entertain, and to educate those I encounter.
Today, I focus only on what I can control, and I leave the rest for the world to figure out.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self not to get so caught up in where you are in life at the moment, because your path is already preordained. Every experience, good or bad, is meant to shape you and bring you closer to your purpose.
The key is to stay self-aware and humble enough to recognize the signs along the way. Always trust your instincts, because nine times out of ten, they’ll guide you toward becoming the best version of yourself.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Film.Cen.Tric: Where the Unconventional Meets Cinematic Expression.
This project is one I’m fully committed to—no matter how long it takes—because it’s my purpose, and it’s deeply fulfilling. I’ve been on what I call a “fulfillment journey” lately, and if an opportunity doesn’t genuinely fill my cup, I don’t pursue it. Whenever I’ve ignored that instinct, I’ve paid for it, and I now recognize that this season of my life requires full alignment with my purpose.
Through this monthly short film screening series, I’m able to help others discover their own purpose in film by placing them in spaces with people actively doing the work—making films and sharing their stories.
I know firsthand how important mentorship and community are in the entertainment industry. Having a tribe and knowing you’re not alone on this path builds confidence and security, because you realize you have the support to keep going on what can often be an “unconventional” journey. That truth alone is all the proof I need to continue building Film.Cen.Tric.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I’m at peace when I’m walking in my truth. When I’m being my most authentic self, I feel calm because I’m no longer pretending for the sake of anyone else. That doesn’t mean it’s easy, there are times I feel myself slipping back into old habits of people-pleasing. But I remind myself it’s not worth sacrificing my identity for acceptance.
I’ve been there before, and it took a lot of work to remember who I truly am. I don’t take that for granted anymore, and I know now that no one’s approval is worth compromising my character.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @amstateofmind, @eamproductionsmiami, @film.cen.tric
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haleem-muhsin-24ab93111/
Image Credits
Photography by:
Jai Westerman
Ricky Stegall
Renand Jean
Kurt Kent
