Three emerging New York City-based filmmakers, including Shanice Brett (“Mamma”), Annie Ning (“The Only Man”) and April Wen (“Natural History”), have been selected to receive $10,000 as part of Genesis House and Gotham Film & Media Institute’s inaugural Short Film Fellowship Program.
In addition to the prize money, which will go toward completing the short story, the three selected filmmakers will receive professional one-on-one mentorship sessions, access to Genesis House programs and events, industry screenings and panels during Gotham Week, and networking opportunities with prominent filmmakers.
“These filmmakers exemplify the bold creativity and fresh perspectives that Genesis House was founded to champion,” Tedros Mengiste, chief operating officer of Genesis Motor North America, said in a statement. “Through this fellowship, we are proud to support emerging storytellers at critical moments in their creative journeys, while fostering a community where ambitious ideas, meaningful collaborations, and new voices are nurtured.”
This year’s mentors include “Diddy” director Sean Wan, “All Dirt Road: A Taste of Salt” director Raven Jackson, “Madeline’s Madeline” director Josephine Decker and Authentic Brands Group producer Matthew Gross.
“Pairing these emerging filmmakers with established mentors provides additional resources at a pivotal time in the filmmaking process,” Jeffrey Sharp, executive director of the Gotham Film & Media Institute, added in a statement. “We are proud to partner with Genesis House on an initiative that reflects our shared commitment to expanding opportunities and elevating unique voices in film and media.”
Fellowship winners were celebrated at a cocktail event on July 22 at Genesis House in Manhattan.
