Arykah Melton
Arykah Melton
Student, Film & Digital Arts
Arykah Melton is a filmmaker and digital media storyteller whose work centers on connection, representation, and the power of sharing untold stories. Originally from out of state, Arykah came to the University of New Mexico for its strong creative community and hands-on film program, where she has grown as a cinematographer, writer, and visual artist.
Arykah Melton is a filmmaker and digital media storyteller whose work centers on connection, representation, and the power of sharing untold stories. Originally from out of state, Arykah came to the University of New Mexico for its strong creative community and hands-on film program, where she has grown as a cinematographer, writer, and visual artist.
Her filmmaking explores identity, lived experiences, and narrative perspectives often missing from mainstream media. One of her recent projects, a multi-year short film following a young Black woman navigating school and self-discovery, reflects her commitment to meaningful, character-driven storytelling.
Arykah was selected as a 2025–2026 Joy of Giving Something Fellow through Imagining America, a national program supporting students who use photography and digital media for community impact. As part of her fellowship, she is designing a storytelling workshop for Albuquerque high school students, helping young creators recognize the importance of their own voices.
At UNM, Arykah credits her professors, classmates, and the local filmmaking community for giving her a sense of belonging and support. She hopes to continue creating work that sparks conversation, encourages authenticity, and inspires others to tell the stories that shape their lives.
