Behind the Scenes: Creating A World Not For Girls

Hey everyone!

It’s Nickiyah Barnes here—filmmaker, storyteller, and founder of Kash Queen Productions—and I’m so excited to finally talk about my latest project: A World Not For Girls.

This film has been such a powerful journey to create, and right now, I’m deep in the editing process—piecing together every moment we captured to tell a story that I believe will re sonate, inspire, and spark conversations.

The Vision

A World Not For Girls is a bold and honest look at what it means to grow up as a young Black girl in environments where the odds are stacked against you. It’s about navigating identity, pressure, expectations, and survival in a world that often isn’t made with us in mind.

The film explores the realities many young girls face—from the glamorization of gang culture to the silent struggles of navigating womanhood in spaces that can feel unsafe, uncaring, or unseen.

This story is deeply personal. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s rooted in truth.

Filming Across South London

What made this project even more special was the locations. We shot across various iconic parts of South London—bringing the authenticity of the area straight to the screen. Some of the key spots included:

• Brixton – a cultural hub with so much history, soul, and energy

• Morley’s Chicken – a legendary staple that felt symbolic of everyday youth life in London

• East Street Market – vibrant, chaotic, and full of character

• South East London backdrops that helped ground the story in reality

Each location added something unique to the film—it wasn’t just a backdrop, it was part of the narrative.

The Experience

Filming this project was one of the most fulfilling things I’ve done so far in my journey as a filmmaker. From working with a talented cast and crew to capturing the energy of the streets I grew up around, it felt like everything aligned. It was creative, emotional, and empowering.

Now that we’re in post-production, I’m taking my time to make sure every detail is right. Every sound, every cut, every moment is being carefully shaped to reflect the message and the emotion behind the story.

What’s Next?

Stay locked in—because once the edit is complete, we’ll be rolling into film festival submissions, screenings, and sharing the project with the world. I truly believe A World Not For Girls will open eyes and hearts.

Thank you to everyone who supported us throughout this process—from helping with locations, spreading the word, showing love online, or simply encouraging the vision. This is just the beginning.

Follow the Journey

Want to stay updated on the film’s release and behind-the-scenes exclusives? Follow me and Kash Queen Productions across social media

Let’s continue to build stories that matter. Because even in a world not made for girls—we’re still here, still rising, and still telling our truths.

Much love,

Nickiyah Barnes