In its fourth season, Rising Voices, an initiative dedicated to discovering, supporting, and amplifying BIPOC filmmakers, is making waves in collaboration with the #1 job site Indeed, Lena Waithe’s Hillman Grad Productions, and 271 Films. In honor of Black History month we’re spotlighting the black filmmakers who were selected for season 4 of the program.
The recently announced class of this season showcases the talent of Wes Andre Goodrich, Winter Dunn, Omar Kamara, and Anndi Jinelle Liggett, each presenting culturally compelling scripts focused on the “future of work.”
READ: 2024 Black History Honors: Celebrating African American Heritage Through Black History Museums
Past seasons’ success stories include directors who went on to helm episodes of “The Chi” and received recognition in prestigious events like the Oscars short film category, underscoring Rising Voices’ significant impact and industry reach.
Wes Andre Goodrich is a Director, Screenwriter, and Playwright from Brooklyn, New York, Wes has gained recognition as one of the 2023 New Faces of Film. Notable works include the TV pilot “HERETICS” and award-winning shorts like “SPEAK UP BROTHA!” and “PALM SUNDAY.”
Winter Dunn is an NAACP award-winning director, producer, and actress from Gary, Indiana, Winter’s expertise extends to directing celebrity features for major media brands. Her acclaimed short film “DEAR MAMA…” premiered at SXSW and earned an NAACP Image Award.
Omar Kamara is a writer, director, and first-generation Sierra Leonean American from Richmond, Virginia, Omar explores the struggles of a Twitch streamer in his submitted short film “BITTER LEAF.” His debut feature film “AFRICAN GIANTS” is set to premiere at Slamdance Film Festival in 2024.
Anndi Jinelle Liggett is a writer and director based in NYC, Anndi submitted “TENDER THOUGHTS,” a film delving into a corporate receptionist’s suppressed creativity. Recognized for her magical-realist short film “Jelly,” awarded the Oscar-qualifying HBO Short Film Award at the 2023 American Black Film Festival.
Rising Voices Season 4 continues to be a platform for BIPOC filmmakers to shine, fostering creativity and representation in the film industry. The upcoming Tribeca Film Festival will showcase these compelling stories, marking another milestone for this impactful initiative.