Support M3: Elevate Young Filmmakers' Voices

As an entrepreneur, producer, author and creator of multiple youth driven platforms-including Briana’s Neighborhood children’s book series, Dare to Dream foundation, and BK Youth Street Games, I understand the value of providing opportunities for youth. It's essential to support them in unapologetically pursuing their dreams, showcase their talents and lead with confidence in knowing that they are supported.

I have spent over a decade working in TV and film production, taking on a wide range of roles. The experience has been amazing however I knew that I wanted to do more and give back to the untapped potential of young, emerging creators who were eager to make their mark but lacked the platform to do so. Driven by a passion to bridge this gap, I envisioned a space where youth could freely express their creativity through filmmaking, a space that wasn't confined by traditional barriers. I recognized that youth are not just passive consumers of content but active creators, armed with smartphones and an innate understanding of digital media. The idea hit me—why not harness this energy and create a platform that would spotlight their talents and offer them the experience they so rightfully deserved?

Mobile Movie Makers (M3) Youth Film Competition and Festival was launched as an innovative and creative approach to support youth as filmmakers, television producers, online content creators, and industry professionals. The purpose of M3 Youth Film Competition and Festival is to support the next wave of young content creators. M3 is dedicated to nurturing budding young filmmakers and sharing the transformative power of their creativity. M3 empowers youth to use smartphones to create personal stories that will positively influence their peers and community.

Since the conception, the platform has gained momentum. Mobile Movie Makers (M3) became more than just a festival; it evolved into a movement. It resonated with young creators who had longed for a stage where their voices could be heard and their visions realized.

With two successful Mobile Youth Film Festivals under our belt in Atlanta and the anticipation building for our 2025 debut in New York City, in partnership with the Brooklyn Children's Museum, the future of youth and mobile film content creation has never looked brighter. Our journey from a pioneering idea to a vibrant movement has ignited a wave of creativity and confidence among young filmmakers. As we prepare to bring this dynamic festival to the heart of NYC, I am thrilled about the incredible stories and innovative content that will emerge, showcasing the limitless potential of the next generation of creators.

Today, I am thrilled and grateful to advance our creative journey and introduce, Mobile Movie Makers (M3) Youth Film Crew and the opportunity to take our mobile filmmaking talent on the road! Our inaugural pilot program will kick off in conjunction with the HBCU Battle of the Bands event in Houston, Texas, August 23-26, 2024.

The “National Battle of the Bands” has been synonymous for featuring electrifying performances by the country’s top Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) marching bands. The goal of this pilot program is to provide currently enrolled middle and high school students with an opportunity to serve as mobile filmmakers for the HBCU Battle of the Bands. In addition, offer them invaluable experience and exposure to the world of filmmaking:

• The first inaugural mobile film youth team for BOTB

• Capture the energy, excitement-behind-the-scenes of this iconic event using their mobile devices

• Conduct live interviews and create storytelling around content

• Film live performances and edit their content

• Empower the next mobile movie film makers and their voices globally!

• Build a storehouse of mobile youth content through partnerships that

actively promote youth culture and digital storytelling

In addition to documenting the Battle of the Bands, our youth filmmakers will have the opportunity to create original content that highlights the rich culture and heritage of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). By amplifying the voices and stories of these institutions, we aim to celebrate their contributions to the fabric of our society and inspire future generations of students.

The Mobile Movie Makers Film Festival and Competition pilot program represents the first step in our larger initiative to empower youth through the art of filmmaking and storytelling. We believe that by providing them with the tools, resources, and platform to express themselves creatively, we can cultivate the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers who will shape the future of our industry.

Your support is invaluable as we build momentum for this platform. We are seeking contributions to cover the essential costs for our upcoming event, including meals for four students and transportation for the four-day weekend. Additionally, we aim to create an expense cushion to facilitate attendance at national events, covering transportation, lodging, and meals. Your generosity will play a crucial role in ensuring these young filmmakers have the opportunity to shine and make the most of this exciting experience.

We can't wait for you to "see our voices"