Daniel Kayamba is an award-winning Congolese writer and director based in Saint Louis, Missouri. For the past five years, he has created films that explore identity, the Black experience, and social issues through an intimate, human lens. His work is rooted in crafting emotionally resonant stories that connect across cultures while staying authentic to underrepresented voices—whether addressing gun violence in Chicago or shining a light on Black cowboys across America.

Daniel immigrated to the United States at the age of nine. Adjusting to a new language, culture, and community was challenging, but he found refuge in movies and television. Inspired by the stories he saw on screen and longing for a sense of belonging, he began making short films about his own experiences and the communities around him.

Daniel’s storytelling blends slice-of-life authenticity with cinematic style, drawing on both African and Western influences. He gravitates toward coming-of-age narratives, portraits of family and community, and characters navigating the space between cultures. His films are known for balancing heartfelt drama with humor, and for bringing warmth, nuance, and empathy to stories often overlooked in mainstream cinema.

He studied directing and writing at Columbia College Chicago, graduating in 2021. Daniel is married and a father to his daughter, Zuri, and son, Moisa. Parenthood has profoundly shaped his perspective as a filmmaker, deepening his empathy for immigrant parents and inspiring stories that honor resilience, love, and cultural identity.