We were lucky to catch up with Hamdullah Hamdard recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hamdullah , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
My purpose is deeply rooted in my journey. Coming from Afghanistan, I experienced both freedom and the collapse of my country. When I arrived in the U.S. with just $100, a backpack with a pair of clothes, and my computer, I knew I had to create something meaningful. I drove Lyft for eight months to support my family, but it also helped me meet people, make connections, and lay the foundation for Owlsion Pictures.
My purpose comes from a desire to tell stories that matter, to capture moments that last, and to give a voice to communities like mine. I believe in empowering newcomers, just like I was once a newcomer myself. My experiences drive me to give opportunities to others, while Owlsion Pictures helps businesses and individuals bring their dreams to life. It’s not just about creating visuals—it’s about framing people’s realities and showing the world their true potential. That’s what keeps me going.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Once, I lived in a time of freedom in Afghanistan, and I had a vision—to show the world that Afghanistan is a place of hearts, not bombs. That was my mission when I founded Chamma Media in Afghanistan. We worked tirelessly to help international media focus on the positive stories that came from our homeland—stories of resilience, hope, and humanity, rather than just the devastation of war.
I never thought that one day I will be living in US but it all happened and the decision was made in 24 hours! When I came to the U.S with nothing in hand but just my laptop and support of family, I carried that same vision with me. I knew I wanted to create a platform here that could continue the work I started with Chamma Media. That’s how Owlsion Pictures was born. Our mission is to capture stories that speak to the heart—whether it’s a wedding, a corporate film, or a documentary, we strive to reflect the beauty, strength, and spirit of the people and places we film.
What excites me most is that we’re not just telling stories, we’re creating connections. My team, many of whom are also newcomers, shares the same passion for making people’s dreams come to life through creative visuals. Whether we’re filming a company’s journey or preserving the memories of a couple’s special day, we bring a heartfelt approach to everything we do.
At Owlsion Pictures, we believe in the power of storytelling to inspire, uplift, and bring people together. That’s what drives us every day—to create something meaningful that touches the hearts of others, just as my journey has shaped my own.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Resilience and Hope: Starting over in a new country brought many challenges, but I never lost hope. Embracing resilience helped me navigate uncertainty and keep moving forward. My advice to anyone starting out is that it’s absolutely fine to begin from scratch; don’t dwell on the past. Instead, focus on the future and the possibilities ahead. Setbacks will come, but each one will make you stronger and more determined.
Storytelling and Passion: At the core of who I am is a passion for storytelling. I believe that everyone has a unique story worth telling, and I strive to connect deeply with those around me. My goal is to present stories in a way that resonates emotionally. For those on their journey, I encourage you to stay passionate about what you do and remain true to your vision. Passion and authenticity are what will set you apart in a crowded world.
Adaptability and Future Focus: Moving to a new country taught me the importance of adaptability. Life rarely goes as planned, and being able to pivot is key. I’ve learned to embrace change and focus on growth. My advice is to stay flexible, keep learning, and maintain a forward-thinking mindset. Let go of what’s behind you and concentrate on the future. Adaptability will help you navigate any challenges that come your way.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was instill a deep appreciation for education and the importance of surrounding myself with positive thinkers. I am who I am today because of their sacrifices. Growing up in Afghanistan, my parents faced numerous hardships, but their unwavering priority was always their children and our education. They made incredible sacrifices to ensure we had the resources we needed to learn, even if it meant going without new clothes or other luxuries.
My parents connected me with positive influences and encouraged me to think critically and logically. They taught me to stand strong against negativity and extremism, empowering me to forge my own path. I feel fortunate to have been born into an educated family, and I carry their lessons with me every day. No matter the circumstances, having a new book, a pen, and a notepad was always more important to them than anything else. Their dedication to my education shaped my values and ambitions, and I strive to honor their sacrifices by making a positive impact in the community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.owlsion.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hamdullah_hamdard/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hamdullah.hamdard01
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hamdullah-hamdard-66246890/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OwlsionPictures
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/owlsion-pictures-university-city
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