Project I Am First

The Ask

To create a short form narrative documentary series that highlights unique stories with a universal message.

What We Did

SEE ME conceptualized and developed I Am First, a Nike Journal series that showcases everyday people working towards becoming the first person in their communities to achieve a desired goal. The series’ inaugural two episodes featured Amira, a first-generation college graduate living in New York City, and Nathan, a French creative who is the first in his family to pursue a career in dance.

Our Alchemy

Due to the personal nature of these narratives, SEE ME wanted to ensure that the featured talent were also the authors of their stories. Over many months during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, our team developed close relationships with the talent and provided them with the equipment needed to self-tape and share archival footage of their lives. Working together as co-directors, we collaborated to create a pair of uniquely intimate moving portraits.