Discover Dunwoody Highlights Kiah Clingman

Discover Dunwoody proudly recognizes Kiah Clingman as the October recipient of the Distinguished Production Associate Recognition Program, an initiative that celebrates the behind-the-scenes professionals who bring productions to life. This program highlights individuals in the film and entertainment industry whose creativity and dedication are essential to storytelling but often go unrecognized.

Kiah’s passion for performing began early in Cincinnati, where she eagerly took the stage at every opportunity, from playing instruments as a child to performing in plays at the Cincinnati Black Theatre. That love for storytelling continued at Howard University, where she majored in journalism and minored in theatre. While maintaining an impressive 3.97 GPA, she acted in more than 20 short films for her film student peers, gaining experience that helped shape her early career.

Her journey took on deeper meaning after her father was diagnosed with ALS in 2013. His perseverance inspired Kiah to pursue her creative calling wholeheartedly, leading to success as both an actress and producer. Her television credits include “The Resident” (FOX), “Ordinary Joe” (NBC), “Atlanta” (FX), “S.W.A.T.” (CBS), and “Black Lightning” (The CW). Her film work includes “Bruiser” (Hulu/Onyx Collective) and “Undercover Brother 2” (Netflix). Beyond acting, Kiah has produced more than 35 films and collaborated with Rolling Stone, Tribeca Studios, Hillman Grad Productions, Issa Rae Productions, and BET Networks on projects that showcase authentic storytelling.

In recent years, Kiah has taken on roles as a writer, director, and producer, creating projects that reflect both artistic depth and personal truth. Her upcoming short film “Her Pretty Vagina” (2026), which she wrote and directed, explores women’s health issues inspired by her experiences with endometriosis and HPV. The project earned recognition through the Women of Color Narrative Initiative and was named Shore Scripts’ 2024 Fall Finishing Funds Winner. Her short film “Thomasville” (2025) tells the story of a father and son navigating loss, while “Color Book” (2024) premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, received two NAACP Image Award nominations, and was named a Variety Critic’s Pick for its touching portrayal of love and resilience.

Kiah’s accomplishments include being named a Southern Producers Lab Fellow (2020), a recipient of Atlanta’s Creative Industries Grant Fund (2023), and a recipient of the Arts & Entertainment Atlanta Grant (2024). These milestones highlight her commitment to meaningful storytelling and her influence in Georgia’s growing entertainment industry.

Looking ahead, Kiah hopes to collaborate with talents such as Ayo Edebiri, Sterling K. Brown, Michaela Coel, and Regina King. While best known for dramatic roles, she is eager to explore comedy on shows like “The Bear” and “Abbott Elementary.” She also plans to shadow direct a television show and produce her next short film, “Strong Legs,” a heartfelt story inspired by caregivers supporting loved ones with ALS.

Discover Dunwoody congratulates Kiah Clingman, the October 2025 Distinguished Production Associate, for her remarkable achievements and continued impact in film and entertainment. Her story is one of perseverance, creativity, and purpose, inspiring the next generation of storytellers shaping Georgia’s film community.


For more information about Discover Dunwoody and to nominate yourself or someone you know for the recognition program, please visit WWW.DISCOVERDUNWOODY.COM/NOMINATION-FORM/