Student Spotlight... Taj-Malik

Over the past 7 years Taj-Malik Tavares has been involved with RE:IMAGINE in different ways and now join us in celebrating his most recent fulltime role as a Sustainability Steward at Prime Video & Amazon Studios in Georgia.

Tavares first got involved with RE:IMAGINE in 2017 during his high school years. He was accepted into the Green Room Summer Camp, where he learned directing skills. The summer spent in the Green Room not only enriched his understanding of filmmaking but also instilled in him the importance of working collectively toward a shared goal. In addition, Tavares spoke about his experience in the program with NPR affiliate station WABE on A Closer Look with Rose Scott . The music video brought awareness to gun violence with youth and he worked with director, Lisa Cunningham , with RADIANT3 . Taj-Malik kept creating and storytelling.

Fast forward a? few years and in 2021 Tavares was accepted to the inaugural cohort of RE:IMAGINE’s Apprenticeship Program, EMERGE. During the year-long apprenticeship he gained paid work experience and explored different aspects of production. RE:IMAGINE played a pivotal role in shaping his resume, ultimately leading him to a position at Adult Swim . After being at Adult Swim for a year he is now at Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios .

Since Tavares’ childhood, he has harbored a passion for science and the environment. Despite initially lacking in-depth knowledge of sustainability, his transition to the role of Sustainability Steward reflects his commitment to making a positive impact. As he puts it, “A lot of people want to just hop right into being director without understanding the collaborative nature and spirit that you have to foster before you get to that point….I think sustainability is a great avenue for that.”

In his new role, Tavares is tasked with data collection and tracking, focusing on carbon emissions throughout the production process. He identifies areas where emissions can be reduced, whether through recycling initiatives or the adoption of alternative fuel sources. By ensuring a clean and sustainable production environment, Tavares is championing eco-friendly practices within Prime Video & Amazon Studios.

Reflecting on his journey, Tavares credits RE:IMAGINE for teaching him the art of collaboration and leveraging individual strengths for the greater good. He emphasizes the importance of humility and a willingness to learn, urging others to never hesitate in seeking assistance and conducting thorough research.

Looking to the future, Tavares aspires to write and direct his own projects, all while keeping sustainability at the forefront of his creative endeavors.

Follow RE:IMAGINE on LinkedIN for more stories and join us May 22nd for Dreamfest to celebrate our storytellers!