Bradford filmmaker Keyhan Modaressi on her new film

At just 22 years old, Keyhan Modaressi is set to premier her short film called ‘Pathways of Courage’.

It follows the journeys of five artists who have each faced their own challenges and creative triumphs along the way.

Sharing their personal journeys into the arts industry and timeless advice, Keyhan wants those who watch it to feel brave enough to navigate their own dreams.

Keyhan Modaressi, pictured (Image: Newsquest)

It features the highs and lows of living a creative life and tales of what can happen if you conquer your fears and limiting beliefs.

Keyhan, who is doing a masters in psychology, said: “It’s just to show that people who are afraid to go into the arts industry can go into it. There’s a lot of obstacles and challenges that people face. 

Left to right, Zahabia Naveed, instrument musician, Sparkle Menzies, director and stage writer, and Hana M. Arshad, documentary filmmaker (Image: Pathways of Courage/Keyhan Modaressi)

“There’s a theme about family, how there was a death or they got inspired by a family member, just talking about that and what struggles they faced with mental health as well.

Keyhan Modaressi by the Mirror Pool (Image: Newsquest)

“The struggles that they faced you wouldn’t expect them to face. You don’t really know a person until you get to know them properly.

“They’re talking about what advice they would give to other people.”

The former Dixons City Academy student went on to study Broadcast Media Technologies student at Leeds Beckett University.

Coming from a family of filmmakers, she dabbled in photography and professional modelling to carve her own path. It saw her featured in Vogue. 

But she has since decided to return to her family’s art and make stories that matter to her.

Keyhan also runs a video business specialising in narrative and documentary filmmaking with her siblings, Pishdaad and Kimia Modaressi.

'SilverFinger Singh' Rajpal Singh Matharu, musician and producer (Image: Pathways of Courage/Keyhan Modaressi)

Much like those featured, ‘Pathways of Courage’ is just the start of the young filmmaker’s hopes and dreams.

Speaking about her future goals, she said: “Just to continue making films that inspire other people, a documentary about what people face, struggles they face, advice for people compared to making a music video. I’m more about the message rather than creating something simple.”

‘Pathways of Courage’ is set to be showcased at the University of Bradford from 5.30pm on Friday, April 26.

To book a free ticket to the premier, visit www.tickettailor.com/events/keyhanproduction/1206708