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We seek to level the playing field...

Our mission

Empower the next generation of filmmakers

Chicago's historical and systemic lack of inclusion restricts new and emerging creatives. We seek to level the playing field by providing resources for hyper-local connection, instruction, learning and career advancement. Through our programming, we ensure women and non-binary filmmakers of color can actively participate in Chicago's bustling media production scene.

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special thanks to our mezcla supporters

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color congress logo
chicago media project logo
AMPT logo
DCASE Chicago Film Office logo
The Field Foundation of Illinois logo
Haribo logo
NoiseFloor logo
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Who We Are

Meet Our Leadership Circle

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Elena Valentine

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Co-Founder + Board President

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Colette Ghunim

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Co-Founder

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Elena Valentine

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co-founder + board president

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Colette Ghunim

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co-founder + executive director

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Alicia Soller

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Communications Manager

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Kenyetta Johnson

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Director of Operations

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Naeema Torres

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Interim Executive Director

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Regina Emiliano

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Director of Community

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Elodie Edjang

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Digital Resources Coordinator

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Amber Eswani

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Administrative Manager

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Adenike Thomas

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Mentorship Coordinator

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Alicia Soller

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Marketing coordinator

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Kenyetta Johnson

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operations manager

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Naeema Torres

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director of development

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Regina Emiliano

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programming coordinator

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Erika Valenciana

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membership coordinator

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Elena Valentine

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digital resources coordinator

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Elena Valentine

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administrative assistant

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Elena Valentine

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World Leader

Board Members

Patrick Dahl
Secretary
CEO & Owner, Banner Collective
Abby Cheesman
Treasurer
Co-Founder, Skillscout
Elena Valentine
Chair & President
Co-Founder & CEO, Skillscout
Paula Froehle
Vice Chair & President
Executive Director, Chicago Media Project
Jessica Tolliver
Mezcla Media Representative
Freelance Filmmaker & Cinematographer
Patrick Dal
Secretary
CEO & Owner, Banner Collective
Abby Cheesman
Treasurer
Co-Founder, Skillscout
Elena Valentine
Chair & President
Co-Founder & CEO, Skillscout
Paula Froehle
Vice Chair & President
Executive Director, Chicago Media Project
Jessica Tolliver
Mezcla Media Representative
Freelance Filmmaker & Cinematographer