WOMEN OF COLOR NARRATIVE INITIATIVE

The Women of Color Narrative Initiative (WOCNI) is a grant that bolsters the work of women of color in film. By investing in women of color economically, while supporting them to innovate from a position of power and authentic connection to community, we help to support a healthier ecosystem for artists.

The grant is $5000 given to support an experienced filmmaker in 1) creating a short film 2) or developing their first feature length documentary or narrative film.

We are interested in unique perspectives and the insertion of stories onto the landscape that go beyond diversification to usher in real culture shift. This is critical to evolving stories and representations for film and TV that are multi-dimensional and complex .  

Intersectional artists must have spaces they can bring their whole selves to, where they can radically reimagine narratives that are impacting their lives, while asserting visionary justice through the lenses they bring to the creative process and to cultural problem solving.

Through WOCNI, VJS is creating opportunities to advance women of color in film in all aspects of production, including above-the-line roles (writers, directors, producers) and for those in the technical field who have an opportunity in this moment to be responsive to new modes of storytelling.

We believe it is always a good idea to invest in women economically, while supporting them to innovate from a position of power.