SXSW 2025
How Film Inspires and Amplifies Civic Engagement
Description:
Storytellers play a critical role in raising awareness about societal issues and creating works that fuel grassroots movements. This panel features filmmakers, including compelling biopic subjects, who discuss their experiences making films that both inspire audiences and drive real-world change.
Other Resources / Information
One of the many interviews Kelley Kali (director of Kemba) and Kemba Smith Pradia (EP and on whom the film is based) https://www.fox5dc.com/video/1446041
Takeaways
- It is possible to use independent films as a tool which propels effective grassroots campaigns for change.
- Success requires involvement of key community stakeholders during a film’s development and production to set up a project's future impact.
- Your film needs to focus on story and entertainment first -- without exploiting or causing harm to the film subjects and communities portrayed.
Speakers
- Lana Link, Producer, MPI Original Films
- Kelley Kali, Director, Independent Filmmaker
- Kemba Smith Pradia, Motivational Speaker/ Activist, Kemba Smith Foundation
- Melony Armstrong, Owner, Naturally Speaking Salons & Training Center
Organizer
Lana Link, Producer, MPI Original Films
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