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Kwende Ried is a Cheddaboy Films founder and an African American independent filmmaker. Based in Detroit, Michigan, he has already released nine videos that can be seen on Amazon Prime and Tubi, which is a significant accomplishment for anyone, but especially for someone who has been incarcerated.
Kwende is a symbol of hope and transformation, describing himself as a resilient and cheerful Black man. After facing the rigors of the criminal justice system as a result of selling marijuana, his life took an extraordinary turn as he embraced filmmaking to empower his community and provide young actors a chance to achieve their goals. His notable films include “One More Flip,” “Cheddaboys,” “5 Minutes,” and “Off the Porch.”
His personal experiences in prison had a major impact on his outlook on life. He recognized a tremendous calling to affect positive change and create possibilities for those facing similar challenges after regaining his freedom. Kwende launched Cheddaboy Films, a platform dedicated to producing authentic stories that shine light on the reality of the inner city, empowering locals to rise above adversity.
Kwende’s debut film, “One More Flip,” was a moving portrayal of a young lady negotiating her way out of the drug trade, desperate to make a better life for herself. The film emphasizes the significance of making healthy decisions and seeking alternatives to a life of crime.
In “Cheddaboys,” he dives into the lives of people growing up in drug-dealing families who are driven to better their communities via music and talents. The film praises the power of friendship, solidarity, and artistic expression, and encourages viewers to turn their passions into agents of change.
“5 Minutes” explores the influence of one terrible decision on loyalty and friendship, sparking a sequence of events that can change people’s lives forever. Kwende’s film inspires discussions on social change and raises awareness of challenges impacting vulnerable communities.
In “Off the Porch,” he deftly navigates the difficulties of familial connections as well as the influence of mentorship. The film depicts the path of a troubled young man who seeks peace in music and violence, affecting everyone around him. “Off the Porch” strikes a chord with viewers by emphasizing the significance of positive role models and cultivating a feeling of community.
Kwende’s talent as a filmmaker and commitment to his community have not gone unnoticed. He creates a nurturing environment for aspiring actors from all walks of life through “Cheddaboy Films,” allowing them to polish their craft and pursue their aspirations in the profession. Several talents found through auditions for Kwende’s films have gone on to win awards and acclaim on both the local and national levels.
Beyond the camera, Kwende is an outspoken supporter of criminal justice reform, using his platform to raise awareness about the critical need for rehabilitation and second chances for individuals harmed by the justice system. His voice resonates, and he has become a sought-after speaker at criminal justice reform and community development conferences and panel discussions.
His journey from incarceration to enlightenment serves as an example to many others confronting difficulty. He has become a tremendous force for positive change through his films and community service. His legacy is growing as he works tirelessly to illuminate lives, ignite dreams, and alter the inner city one film at a time. All of his films are currently available on Tubi, and three of them are also available on Amazon Prime.
