( ENSPIRE She Did That ) A Recap Of the 2025 BWFN Summit in Atlanta
Inspired and empowered, the Black Women Film Network (BWFN) presented its annual Summit at the Loudermilk Conference Center last month. This will be marking its 10th anniversary. This year’s gathering, themed “Plot Twist: The Art of The Pivot,” illuminated how Black women are navigating change and shaping the future of the film, television, and entertainment landscape. The Summit offered a range of engaging panels that delved into funding strategies, effective marketing, public relations, and the representation in front of and behind the camera.
The Black Women Film Network was sponsored by NBCUniversal and AspireTV+, and powered by CVENT. The 2025 BWFN Summit marked the 28th year of the organization’s dedication to supporting and uplifting Black women in the film and entertainment industries. Attendees were treated to a dynamic program featuring insightful fireside chats with industry luminaries. Kat Graham and Meagan Tandy, the talented stars of Amazon MGM Studios’ “Tyler Perry’s Duplicity,” shared their experiences. At the same time, Sonay Hoffman, the co-showrunner behind NBC’s compelling series “Found,” offered her perspectives on navigating the television landscape. A highlight of the day was the annual luncheon, which celebrated a distinguished group of pioneering women. Media mogul and Urban One, Inc. Founder Cathy Hughes received the Sheryl Gripper On Her Shoulders Preservation Award, recognizing her foundational contributions. Angi Bones, President of Original Content at Tyler Perry Studios, was honored with the ProducHER award for her high-caliber production work.
Furthermore, Denise Williams Watts, Global Head of Original Content for Apple Music, was recognized as a Beacon, inspiring hope through her journey. The RainmakHER award, celebrating those who open doors for others, was presented to Felicia Joseph, Senior Vice President of Casting for Disney Branded Television. Actress Aja Naomi King, star of NBC’s upcoming “Grosse Pointe Garden Society,” received the AcceleratHER Award, acknowledging her rising career. Finally, Pulitzer Prize-winning creator and showrunner of Starz’s “P-Valley,” Katori Hall, was celebrated with the StorytellHER award for her impactful writing. This recaps all awards, panels, and celebrations of the 2025 BWFN Summit.
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