PAST EVENTS
Annual Summer Mixer
Each year, we host our signature Summer Mixer in New York City, bringing our community together to network, eat, drink, dance and build community.
It's the perfect opportunity for our members to connect in a fun and relaxed setting.
Panels
Speed Pitch & Panel
Marvin Scott (HBO Marketing Executive), Janelle James (writer on The Rundown with Robin Theade), and Keith Josef Adkins (writer on Girlfriends, The Good Fight).
This event was divided into two parts: breaking in as a TV writer, and allowing our attendees to pitch their ideas to the panel for constructive criticism.
Directing & Producing for TV, Film & CommercialS
Warren Oliver, Tiffany Jackson and Kurt Williamson.
The HollandWest team has produced content for Wal-Mart, BET, and the 2016 Hillary Clinton campaign. In this panel, they break down their creative and business approach in regards to directing and producing for TV, film and commercials.
Producing Short Films For The Festival Circuit w/ HBO & ABFF
Nikyatu Jasu (2016 ABFF HBO short film winner), Terron Jones (2014 ABFF HBO short film finalist), Kiara Jones (2013 ABFF HBO short film finalist), Greg Rhem (Director, HBO Documentary Films) discuss producing short films for the film festival circuit.
Moderated by Lamonia Brown (director of programming at ABFF Ventures).
Making & Marketing Documentaries
Chana Ewing (Founder of marketing company Little Big Girl + Co), Jason Pollard (Editor of Get Me Roger Stone, Rapture), Sam Pollard (Director of Mr. Soul!, Maynard).
In this panel, Rashida Jones (Senior VP of News Specials, MSNBC) moderates a discussion around how to direct, edit and market documentaries.
Workshops
DSLR Camera Basics
Sterling Milan, cinematographer and director, taught our community members the fundamentals of DSLR camera settings, composition, and more.
Low Budget Lighting Solutions
Justyn Davis (Gaffer on BlacKkKlansman and Harlem) gave our members a hands-on demonstration of how to light scenes using paper lanterns and construction lights.
Directors Workshop
Shaka King (Director of Judas & The Black Messiah) shared insights into his creative process and discussed key scenes from his projects, offering a deep dive into the artistic decisions behind his work.
We regularly host community screenings, showcasing films created by Black filmmakers and storytellers. These events provide a platform for filmmakers to share their work, spark meaningful discussions, and connect with fellow creatives and film enthusiasts.
Community Screenings
Black Film & TV
Trivia Night
Could you name the longest-running African-American sitcom? You could after joining us for Black Film & TV Trivia Night!
We gathered to test our knowledge and learn all about the rich history of Black cinema and television. And yes, there were exciting prizes, too!
