Day 1: Kwanzaa Film Festival – Unity Award Ceremony & Opening Films
📅 Date: December 26, 2024
📍 Location: Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture
Address: 515 Lenox Avenue, Harlem, New York
🚇 Transportation: Conveniently located near the 2 and 3 trains at 135th Street
🕠 Doors Open: 5:30 PM
🍴 Reception: 6:00 PM
🏆 Awards Ceremony: 7:00 PM
Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating Unity—the first principle of Kwanzaa—at the official opening of the Kwanzaa Film Festival!
Unity Award Honorees
We honor seven remarkable individuals whose contributions exemplify the spirit of community and resilience:
- Crystal Williams: CEO, Kids Passports to Adventure
- Clayton Banks: CEO, Silicon Harlem
- Melba Toliver: Trailblazing First Black Anchor
- Jose Saldana: Director, Release Aging People in Prison
- Sharrone Salaam: Advocate and Activist
Films Screening
The evening will also feature inspiring and thought-provoking films:
- Plant her Deshawn White
- Gods of the Universe: Rise of the Star Child Cathy SitaRam
- Resilience -Julia O’Farrow
Entertainment Highlights
- African Dance Performances: Dynamic and captivating performances showcasing cultural heritage.
- Best Dressed Fashion Show: Celebrate style with a showcase of stunning looks from our vibrant community.
A celebratory reception will follow, offering a chance to mingle with honorees, filmmakers, and attendees.
RSVP now to secure your spot and be part of a powerful night of unity, culture, and celebration.
DAY 2: HER STORIES SCREENING
December 27, 2024
Venue: Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture
12:00 PM – Mabel – Director: Bianca LaVerne Jones | Runtime: 18:45
12:20 PM – Justice – Director: Ayeraye Hargett (Student Film) | Runtime: 9:56
12:30 PM – Under Thy Wings – Producers: Kisha Barr, Susan Hall | Director: Jamal Hodge | Runtime: 13:35
12:45 PM – BF – Director: Jaimie Addison | Runtime: 15:40
1:05 PM – Shoebox – Director: D’Angelo “DLo” Louis | Producer: Jamari Perry | Runtime: 12:25
1:20 PM – Inadequate – Director: Elya Randriano | Runtime: 11:59
1:35 PM – New York Tough – Directors: Miki Benyamini, Yoni Benyamini | Runtime: 16:23
1:55 PM – There is a River – Director: Tula B. Strong | Runtime: 19:48
2:15 PM – Fugitive Freedom Dreaming – Director: Catron Booker | Runtime: 5:52
2:25 PM – James Solomon Russell: Adventure – Director: Nicci T. Carr | Runtime: 50:50
3:20 PM – Phat Girl – Director: Rosemarie Wilson | Runtime: 8:13
3:30 PM – She Flies Again – Director: Joy Shannon | Runtime: 13:22
3:45 PM – Bottled Spirits – Director: Elizabeth Carter | Runtime: 34:15
4:20 PM – The Celebration – Producer: Margie Merritt | Cinematographer: Justyn T. Davis | Runtime: 13:36
Panel Discussion: “The Art & Business of Film as a Black Woman”
Afterparty:
Celebrating Rhythm and Blues
Venue: The Shrine, 2271 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
MUSIC VIDEOS, PERFORMANCES, AND CELEBRITY GUESTS
DAY 3: VOICES OF KING
12:53 PM – What Happened to Bass Street $eck (12:30)
1:50 PM – Ma ŋaye ka Masaala a se ka Wɔmɛti (From God To Man) Lansana Mansaray (14:59)
2:07 PM – I Am A Martial Autist Jason Henderson (39:59)
2:49 PM – A Voice for Health Michael Paul Stephenson (8:34)
Panel Discussion: Black Men Writers Block 4 PM
Topic: How to Keep Writing Authentic and Still Marketable
Description:
This panel delves into the unique challenges faced by Black male writers in balancing authenticity with the demands of a competitive and commercial marketplace. How can writers stay true to their voice, culture, and experiences while navigating a market that often pressures creatives to conform to mainstream narratives?
The discussion will feature seasoned and emerging Black male writers sharing their personal journeys, strategies for breaking through creative blocks, and methods for maintaining the integrity of their stories while ensuring their work reaches broader audiences. Topics include:
- Overcoming stereotypes and creating multidimensional Black male characters.
- Strategies for appealing to both niche and mainstream audiences.
- Navigating publishing and production spaces as a Black male writer.
- Building resilience against rejection and staying motivated.
Audience Takeaways:
Participants will leave with actionable insights and inspiration to keep their writing both authentic and marketable, fostering a deeper understanding of how to remain true to their creative vision while achieving professional success.
DAY 4: HEALTH IS WEALTH – BLOCK A
December 29, 2024
Venue: Kwanzaa Cinema, 220 E 125th St, Harlem Community Center
12:00 PM – Never Keep Silent Quester Hannah(40:00)
12:42 PM – Belonging: Tiger Bay Boxing Club Florence (40:00)
1:24 PM – The DNA of Love Kevin Huhn (14:59)
1:41 PM – Mosiah Jirard (40:00)
2:23 PM – Resilience Julia O’Farrow (10:00)
2:35 PM – The Invincible Jayson Garvey Melanee Murray (22:12)
3:00 PM – The HoodTrophy Bino Story: Breaking the Generational Curse Sam “Gebar (20:14)
Event: Mindful Creativity: Yoga and Meditation for the Artist
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Room 1
Description:
Unlock your creative potential and find balance in the artistic journey with Mindful Creativity: Yoga and Meditation for the Artist. This session is designed specifically for creatives seeking to reconnect with their inner selves amidst the demands of their craft.
Led by an experienced yoga instructor and meditation guide, participants will explore gentle yoga poses, mindfulness techniques, and breathing exercises tailored to alleviate stress, boost focus, and spark inspiration. This holistic approach fosters mental clarity, emotional resilience, and a renewed connection to your artistic vision.
Who Should Attend:
Open to all artists—writers, filmmakers, performers, and creators—this session is perfect for anyone looking to cultivate a sustainable creative practice while nurturing their well-being.
Bring a yoga mat, an open mind, and a willingness to embrace the present moment. No prior experience with yoga or meditation is necessary.