The Bronx Film Initiative is a non-profit organization that provides youth in historically marginalized communities with a safe space. Our tailored programming allows young people to have creative control as they collaborate with each other and industry professionals to explore the various realms of production.
The Bronx Film Initiative is a non-profit organization that brings filmmaking resources to youth in historically marginalized communities. Our mission is to provide them with the tools, resources and manpower they need to tell their stories and bring them to life on the big screen. By partnering the young aspiring filmmakers with working film and tv professionals, they’re able to experience the filmmaking process at the highest level and get first hand exposure to the various career opportunities available in this vast industry.
BFI was founded in one of the poorest congressional district in the United States. Youth growing up under such circumstances come into our program carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. So to them, filmmaking is more than just art or an occupation, it's a form of therapy. This is why we take a holistic approach with our programming, focusing not only on the technical and creative aspect of filmmaking, but also the therapeutic properties of the production process.
1. Empathy and Understanding: Filmmaking can help individuals understand and empathize with the experiences of others by exploring characters, situations, and emotions in a safe and creative environment. This can lead to a greater appreciation for diversity and inclusivity, and help individuals develop more empathy for others.
2. Self-Expression: Filmmaking provides a means for individuals to express themselves and share their perspectives, experiences, and emotions. This can be especially powerful for individuals who may not feel comfortable expressing themselves verbally or through written forms of communication.
3. Communication Skills: Filmmaking involves working with others to tell a story, and it requires strong communication skills. Whether working with actors, crew members, or other collaborators, the filmmaking process teaches individuals how to effectively communicate their ideas and collaborate to achieve a common goal.
4. Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Filmmaking is a complex and often challenging process, and it requires individuals to think critically and make decisions in real-time. Whether it's figuring out how to solve a technical issue or finding a creative solution to a storytelling problem, the filmmaking process teaches individuals how to problem-solve and make informed decisions.
5. Resilience and Perseverance: Filmmaking can be a long and difficult process, and it requires individuals to be persistent and resilient. Whether facing challenges on set or dealing with setbacks in post-production, the filmmaking process teaches individuals how to bounce back from setbacks and keep moving forward, even when things don't go as planned.
In these ways and more, our filmmaking process is an effective tool for supporting social emotional learning, helping individuals to develop important skills and competencies that will serve them well in all areas of their lives. This kind of program fosters self-realization, creativity, and problem solving, while also teaching youth how to effectively and compassionately communicate with others. It encourages them to explore their personal experiences and identities, and to engage in meaningful conversations about social justice and equity. Through this program, youth can gain a better understanding of themselves, their peers, and their place in the world, while creating art that has the power to create positive change.
Are you a film or television professional looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community? We are looking for experienced volunteers for our youth film program. We offer volunteer opportunities for both film students and experienced professionals. As a volunteer, you will have the chance to share your knowledge and expertise with budding filmmakers, help them develop their skills, and mentor them as you help bring their film to life.
You will also have the opportunity to network with fellow filmmakers, and be part of a community of passionate creatives.
We also welcome those who are looking to gain more filmmaking experience and bridge the gap between up-and-coming filmmakers and industry professionals. Our program provides the perfect opportunity to collaborate with like-minded creatives and make a positive difference in the lives of underserved youth.If you are interested in lending your expertise to our program, please reach out to us. We look forward to hearing from you! *Stipends Provided*
Leon Robinson, President Award Winning Actor, Writer, Director, President- Motion Mobb Films
Marcie Hume, Executive Producer A&E Networks
Christopher Richardson, President and CEO of Metal Sales
Lester Walker, International Chef, Co Founder of Bronx Based Culinary Collective Ghetto Gastro
Kevin C. Spence, Award Winning Cinematographer and Photographer
Erica Knox, Vice President Strategic Communication, Social Impact at BET
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Christina Richardson
Founder/ Program Director
Ella Tabak
Executive Assistant,
Producer & Actor
Resident Filmmaker
Instructor and Resident Director of Photography
Instructor, Resident Screenwriter and Storyteller
Resident Post Producer
Resident Post Supervisor