A Trailblazing Event for Equity and Representation
The Black Women Film Network (BWFN), a pioneering nonprofit dedicated to championing Black women in film and television, is gearing up for its 9th Annual Summit, set to take place on March 23, 2024, in Atlanta.
This year’s theme, “Standing on Business: How Creatives Get the Bag,” underscores the organization’s unwavering commitment to promoting equity and representation within the entertainment industry.
At the heart of this highly anticipated event lies the Summit Awards Luncheon, where the BWFN will honor its esteemed Class of 2024 and announce scholarship recipients, who will receive up to $1,000 to support their film and TV careers. The honorees, chosen for their exceptional contributions and trailblazing endeavors, include:
- Lena Waithe (Emmy-winning writer, producer, and actress: “The Chi,” “Master of None,” “Twenties,” “Boomerang,” “Queen & Slim,” “Kokomo City”) – TrailblazHER Award
- Mona Scott-Young (CEO and producer, “Love & Hip Hop” franchise creator) – RainmakHER Award
- Raamla Mohamed (creator, showrunner, and executive producer of “Reasonable Doubt”) – StorytellHER Award
- Gail Bean (actress: “P-Valley,” “Snowfall”) – Black Woman Rising Award
- Amber Rasberry (senior creative film executive, development, production, acquisitions at Amazon Studios) – PowerbrokHER Award
A Platform for Growth and Empowerment
Chiquita Lockley, BWFN Board Chairwoman, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming Summit, stating:
“We are delighted to once again present our annual BWFN Summit, thanks in part to generous support from NBCU Launch, Amazon, Aspire TV+, and Cvent.
From the picket lines to major press moments, we’ve heard strong voices like Gina Prince-Bythewood, Taraji P. Henson, Keke Palmer, and Issa Rae consistently address the need for equity for Black women across the spectrum of the entertainment industry.”
The BWFN Summit: A Celebration of Talent and Resilience
In addition to the Awards Luncheon, the BWFN Summit promises a wealth of networking opportunities, workshops, and panel sessions spotlighting various aspects of the industry and employment resources, such as the Amazing Stories Foundation PA program.
With support from Fulton Films, the Summit aims to level the playing field for entry and advancement within the industry for Black women.
Moreover, the BWFN Short Film Festival, a platform amplifying the talents of emerging and established Black women filmmakers, will be presented in conjunction with the Summit, marking its first alignment with the event since the pandemic.
A Legacy of Inspiration and Empowerment
Established in 1997, the Black Women Film Network has been a trailblazing force for over 27 years, inspiring and empowering Black women daily through programming and a strong social media presence.
As Black women continue to make strides in the industry, BWFN remains at the forefront, serving as an essential platform for representation and growth.
