sistah_angela

This week, @NatalieRaeRobison and I were presented with the @CriticsChoice Documentary Award for @DaughtersDocumentary. I was deeply honored and overjoyed that @MaraBrockAkil presented the award at @ccblackcinema. Mara and her husband, Salim Akil, have been steadfast supporters of @GirlsForAChange. I could hardly speak to accept my award after hearing my sister, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor’s acceptance speech. She shared a story I know all too well: humble beginnings. She reminded us that we must do whatever it takes to get the job done. When she referenced even doing a fish fry to make a film or move forward, she reminded us that we are what we have been waiting for. We don’t need to wait for anyone else to give us permission or pave the way. We can do it ourselves. I started my organization with fish frys, car washes, and bake sales. Local churches and community centers were all I had, and I took full advantage of engaging them to achieve my goals. I want to thank Sistah Aunjanue for reminding us all that we must always go back to our roots and do it by any means necessary. Because let’s be real: nobody is going to care enough or do it like we will. This is our truth. It was also great to meet @EthanHerisse and Brandon Wilson of Nickel Boys. Released on Amazon December 14, 2024. A must see! My heart was so full last night from so many amazing words and testimonies it felt like a series of sermons. People were preaching! I love Black people and our resilience so much. Thank you again for such an amazing honor. #CriticsChoice #CelebrateBlackCinema

Last night, I had the honor of receiving the @IndieWire Magnify Award alongside @DaughtersDocumentary Co-director @natalieraerobison. This award means so much to us as filmmakers. Daughters celebrates the strength and love of Black girls and their families. It’s a testament to the power of our stories — stories often overlooked but now finding recognition. By highlighting these narratives, you challenge perceptions, spark change, and amplify the resilience of young girls to reach broader audiences. Thank you, IndieWire, for the recognition!

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to @Netflix for the invitation to attend The @hollywoodreporter’s Annual Women in Entertainment Breakfast. It was truly an honor to celebrate the remarkable women in the industry who are breaking down barriers and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. The event highlighted the power of mentorship, education, and access to opportunity. Witnessing the presentation of over $1 million in scholarships to high school seniors from underserved communities through THR’s Women in Entertainment Mentorship Program was deeply inspiring. This program is a testament to the incredible impact of providing young women with access to networks, hands-on experiences, and opportunities that can change the trajectory of their lives. It was a delight to be surrounded by women who are uplifting women trailblazers, philanthropists, and visionaries—coming together to celebrate progress and pave the way for the next generation of leaders. Events like this remind us of the importance of fostering community and creating meaningful opportunities for growth and success. Thank you for the opportunity to witness and celebrate this transformative work.

I had a great conversation with @gisellefernanfez on @spectrumnews1socal. Watch the full episode here at the link in my bio. @asp_film #LAStories #spectrumnews1socal

The @DaughtersDocumentary Soundtrack is officially out! The 29-track album with music by @iamKesleyLu, featuring additional music by Miink, can be found on your favorite music streaming platforms.

There’s a lot at stake in this election. Change starts with each and every one of us. Make a plan, exercise your voice, and VOTE for change.

I am very proud that @daughtersdocumentary received the 2024 Resilience Award from @ShineGlobal. Shine Global understands the power of storytelling and is dedicated to improving children’s lives by producing and supporting impactful films about children’s issues. “The film embodies Shine Global’s mission to share stories of young people overcoming adversity, reminding us of the importance of hope, love, and the human spirit’s ability to triumph even in the most challenging circumstances.”

I’m thrilled to share that @daughtersdocumentary has been nominated as one of 16 nonfiction features to be longlisted for the Cinema Eye Honors Audience Choice Prize! First-round voting for the Audience Choice opens on Monday, October 28, and closes on Saturday, November 2 at 5PM PT. The 10 films with the most votes will become Audience Choice Prize nominees for 2025, with announcements coming on Thursday, November 14. Make your vote now and help us spread the word by sharing with others. Your support means the world to us! Vote at the link in my bio.

I am a proud member of @SisterFundRVA, a grassroots donor education and grant-making initiative, uniting civic-minded Black women’s ideas and actions through philanthropy and collective giving. This month I had the opportunity to share my journey as a co-director with fellow members. The ups, the downs, and the in-betweens I am so grateful for the community I have found with fellow sistahs!

I was honored to attend @ShineGlobal’s film screening series for 2024 Resilience Award nominees in New York City. It was great to meet the founders, spend time with Daughters Producer @Mindy_Goldberg (@epochfilms), and meet other filmmakers. We will find out if Daughters won at the Awards Ceremony in Los Angeles on October 15! Get tickets at shineglobal.org/resilience-awards

Johnny Boatman still awaits a heart while fighting for his life in the VCU Pauley Center. At 58, Johnny Boatman has dedicated over 25 years of his life to serving this country, earning the Bronze Star Medal and retiring as a Lt. Colonel from the Illinois National Guard. As the creator of Operations First Choice, a Chicago-based program helping youth aged 7-17, and currently serving in a leadership role at the Department of Defense, Johnny’s impact on his community and country is immense. Please share Johnny’s story on your social media feeds. Encourage others to share as well. Follow @JohnnysHeart2024 to learn more.

Actor | Filmmaker | red carpet host + GIRL DAD @merquillo fans out on @daughtersdocumentary! ⭐️ @sistah_angela @chad_m_morris . Filmed by @rich_amuri