MEET NIKKI
Nikki Abban approaches art like a philosopher—led by curiosity and desire to uncover truth.
Nikki Abban is a writer, filmmaker, and educator with experience across CNN, PBS, and independent productions, including her work as a producer on the 2019 documentary Uncivilized. She is currently developing her directorial debut, an autobiographical documentary about her return to Ghana. Nikki is especially drawn to stories that explore Africa, the Black diaspora, spirituality, mysticism, Afrofuturism, and cultural phenomena. She holds a B.A. in Communication from the University of Pittsburgh and an M.S. in Secondary Education from Johns Hopkins University. This year, as Director of Resources at Idyllwild Arts Academy, Nikki applied her global perspective and commitment to culturally relevant education to support students with diverse learning needs.
This fall, Nikki will begin her MFA in Filmmaking at Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), further deepening her craft and storytelling.
In her down time, you’ll find Nikki watching YouTube videos about off-the-grid living, roaming through art museums, writing about movies, or planning her next trip abroad.
PRESS/AWARDS/RESIDENCIES
Accra, Ghana — the hottest new destination for London creatives - London Evening Standard - 2023
Life & Work with Nikki Abban - Voyage Baltimore - 2023
RESIDENCIES
AWARDS
Student Excellence Award, Johns Hopkins, 2022 (M.S. in Ed)
Panelist University of Pittsburgh Undergraduate Film Symposium, 2015
VISION/VALUES
NIKKI’S WATCH LIST
My Teenage Dream : “Dope” (2015)
When My World is Crumbling : “The Parent Trap” (1998)
My Damn I wish I wrote that… : “The Bear”(2023) “Everything Everywhere All At Once” (2022) , “I’m a Virgo”
When I’m In My Lover Girl Bag: “Entergalactic” (2022)
Made Me Look : “Beef” (2023), “Beba” (2021) , “Blackalachia” (2021)
All The Feels : “Boyhood” (2014) , “Moonlight” (2016)
Still Haunts Me : “Us” (2019) , “Mother” (2017) , “Dear Zachary” (2008)