UTA Libraries Student Employee Spotlight: Faiyaz Bin Zia

For Faiyaz Bin Zia, the video camera is more than just a tool to document an event; it is a way to capture a moment to share with others. Working in UTA Libraries' marketing and communications department affords that opportunity. 

Faiyaz’s interest in videography started as a seventh grader asking his dad not for the latest gaming system but for a camera for his birthday. This camera grew his interest in filmmaking, leading Faiyaz to form a production company in his home country of Bangladesh. 

"I used to make videos for small and medium-sized businesses. Later on, thankfully, I got more clients," Faiyaz said. "Before I moved here to the U.S., my last clients were the Bangladesh Army and Navy and some big corporate businesses. When I moved here, I had to leave it behind because I could not bring my business with me." 

As a master’s student in information systems, the desire to come to this country was a dream he had since he was a child seeing it as a place for innovation and culture. The COVID-19 pandemic slightly derailed his plans, but he finally arrived in December 2022. 

"My uncle lives in Frisco. He always tells me that people in Texas are much nicer than in other states," he said. "Also, one of my childhood friends went to UTA. He told me I should come to UTA because they have a good community, great professors and a beautiful campus. I thought, why not. That made me come to UTA." 

As one of the assistant multimedia producers, Faiyaz works to support the library's outreach efforts. Working alongside Sean Donohoe, UTA Libraries' multimedia producer and fellow student employee Kingsley Uwakwe where they create videos that spotlight the community within its walls. 

"I am really thankful that I have gotten to film some of the events that have to do with the diversity within the UTA campus. For example, during the holy month for Muslims, Ramadan, UTA Libraries gave the Muslim Student Association a place to pray," he said. "So, I collaborated with them to film the place and gave them an opportunity to share their feelings about it, along with letting people know about the month of Ramadan." 

Outside of work and life on campus, Faiyaz enjoys exploring and learning more about his new adopted home, visiting places like the Fort Worth Stock Yards, and traveling to the West Coast of the U.S.  

Once he graduates, Faiyaz hopes to work for a tech company and become his own boss. 

"I am really looking forward to having my own startup here in the U.S.," he said. "Down the line, I want to go into business for myself, but first, I want to learn the business because I need to learn the ins and outs and the best practices in the industry." 

Faiyaz, we are happy that you have chosen UTA Libraries as a place to share your talents. We look forward to working alongside you to help you both on your academic and professional journey, giving you the tools and resources to be successful.