LAUNCH OF HBCU STORYTELLERS

​This Fall, NPF partnered with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation of Battle Creek Michigan announce the launch HBCU Storytellers, a project aimed at training HBCU students in documentary film production. This new two-year project and $399,000 grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation opens up a critical pathway to engage talented youth in the NPF mission.

​HBCU Storytellers will employ and train interns from six HBCUs (Virginia State University, Hampton University, Virginia Union University, Norfolk State University, Virginia University of Lynchburg, and Wiley College). The aim for the initiative is to create stories that foster healing, build empathy, and lead to real world solutions, an extension of the NPF’s commitment in activism through cinematic arts, and belief in grassroots leadership and storytelling as a vehicle for social change. The HBCU program participants will create a series of documentary films highlighting specific themes related to the history and legacy of African descendant people in America. HBCU Storytellers will work directly with local communities by providing a platform for memories, dialogues, and community engagement to build stronger intergenerational and interracial relationships. Under the direction of the NPF staff and local, partnering stakeholders, students will identify pertinent issues related to their local black communities. The selected interns will gain formal training in filmmaking, and access to a rich network of mentors. Ultimately, the participant-produced works will help bring forth some of the dynamic hidden stories that lie in their local communities and give a voice to the unheard.