Shaneika Simone Asare Simms
Profession
MRes Art: Moving Image alum
College
Central Saint Martins
Person Type
Alumni
Biography
Shaneika Asare Simms is a London-based filmmaker, researcher and graduate of the MRes Art: Moving Image at Central Saint Martins. She is also co-founder of Asare Simms, a production company creating films and branded work for global clients.
Interview
Please can you tell me a little bit about yourself.
Shaneika Asare Simms is a London-based filmmaker, researcher and co-founder of Asare Simms, a production company creating films and branded work for clients including Facebook, Channel 4, Footlocker, AFROPUNK, DJI and Kick It Out. Her work has amassed millions of views, featured in outlets such as MSN and the Daily Mail, and screened internationally, earning a Best Drama nomination. Shaneika graduated from LCC with a BA (Hons) in Film Practice in 2015 and completed the MRes Moving Image in 2026.
Why did you choose to study MRes Art: Moving image and why CSM?
I wanted to undertake an independent research project, and CSM is such an iconic university with a rich history of creativity and excellent output. Of all the London universities I looked at, none offered an MRes in Moving Image. Studying an MRes course was important to me because I wanted to focus on research and writing. It is also near my house, which is important as I have two children.
What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on so far? What made it so interesting to work on?
I would say my writing practice and interests have been the most important, as the seminars and academic support have helped me formulate my thinking and find the right terms to frame my writing interests. It has been great to discover historical links to my current creative practice.
Have you completed any work placements / internships whilst being on the course? If so, can you tell me a little bit about your role?
N/A, but I have had my work screened at the Good Rice Gallery and will soon present work at the LCC event Storytelling Through Art and Design – Visualising Racial and Social Justice. Experiencing the process of submitting, preparing and seeing my work screened in a gallery or exhibition setting has been incredibly valuable, as it allows me to meet new people and gain new perspectives on my work.
What important piece of advice would you give to students thinking of studying this course?
Be ready to be independent and follow your own interests. Don’t follow the crowd, as your unique perspective could be the very thing that sets your writing and creative work apart. This was true for me, as I was unknowingly pregnant during the course, and this new aspect of my positionality has become a significant part of my work to date.
What has been the highlight of your CSM experience so far?
I would say going to class with my newborn has been a highlight. Having her meet my class and sit in seminars has been very special. I don’t have to stop being a mother or remove that part of my identity at CSM. Another highlight has been my toddler joining in on video calls as well.
What are your career aspirations? Where would you like to be in five years time?
Hopefully I will still be researching, filming, screening work in galleries, having panel conversations and pushing myself to be uncomfortable, as that’s how I’ve felt throughout this course. The ability to not feel the pressure to make work that is ‘trending’ would be great.
What is the most important thing you've learnt on the course so far?
Just start. Begin with the first draft, open the edit and get going - you can seek advice and grow from there.
Links
Follow Shaneika on Instagram
Find out more about Asare Simms