Kiyoka “Kex” Rhodes is a regionally Emmy-nominated director, producer, and writer creating narrative films, documentaries, commercials, and branded content. Her credits include projects for BBC Studios, The CW Network’s DCW50, Comcast, and 60 Second Docs. In 2019, Rhodes received a Capital Emmy nomination for BTheOne, a suicide and substance abuse prevention PSA campaign. Her television promotional work has also featured notable talent including Denzel Washington, Mandy Moore, Don Cheadle, Joel Edgerton, and more.

A passionate filmmaker, Rhodes tells stories that explore identity, history, community, and social impact. Her short documentary Station 8, commissioned by Arlington County Virginia for the Fire Station 8 Museum, screened at the DC Shorts International Film Festival and the Richmond International Film Festival. Her comedy short Donut Give Up! was selected for the Oscar-qualifying HollyShorts Monthly Screenings and the DC Black Film Festival.

Her upcoming narrative short and educational initiative, Desolate Dreams, explores Japanese American incarceration and the Black journalists who spoke out against it during World War II. The screenplay was recognized as a semifinalist in the Cinequest Screenwriting Competition. In 2023, Rhodes was named Filmmaker of the Month by Washington, D.C.’s Office of Cable, Television, Film, Music and Entertainment.

As the Founder and Creative Director of Kex Studios, an award-winning production company, Rhodes has earned multiple Telly Awards and a Davey Award for her creative leadership. She is currently pursuing an MBA at Johns Hopkins University’s Carey Business School and holds a Bachelor’s in Film and Media Arts with a minor in Graphic Design from American University’s School of Communication.

A member of the Producers Guild of America, Rhodes is developing several narrative projects, including her first feature film, while continuing to produce meaningful work by other storytellers with purpose and impact.

Memberships & Affiliations:

• Producers Guild of America

• National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (Chesapeake Bay Chapter)

• ARRAY Crew/Impact