November 8th 2023.
David E. Talbert, the renowned filmmaker, is creating a pathway for students of color to enter the film industry. He has recently launched his HBCU Next fellowship program in partnership with the USC School of Cinematic Arts to promote aspiring filmmakers from Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
The aim of this program is to bring forth more authentic representations of the Black experience in media. Talbert and his wife and producing partner Lyn Sisson-Talbert have funded the program to make sure that these students have access to all the resources they need to get their foot in the door.
Talbert believes that this program will create a platform for students to engage in cultural exchange, learn from one another's experiences, and that the industry will benefit from the unique stories that these students bring forward.
As part of the program, students will receive mentoring from Talbert himself. They will have access to courses in advanced screenwriting, advanced directing, animation, producing, editing, and gaming. Additionally, HBCU graduates such as Forest Whitaker, Tim Story, Ruth Carter, J.B. Smoove, and Anika Noni Rose will be speaking to the HBCU Next scholars.
Talbert understands the lack of access to the entertainment industry post-graduation and believes that this fellowship will bridge the gap. He says, “Having graduated from an HBCU, and working in the business for over 30 years, I understand it’s never the artistry or intellect, but the access, that keeps people of Color from finding their way in. HBCU Next was created to bridge that gap. Our Next is now.”
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