On October 29, 2025, the Urbanworld Film Festival made a groundbreaking announcement about a historic partnership with BLACK GIRLS ROCK! This exciting collaboration seeks to amplify the voices of filmmakers of color and expand opportunities for underrepresented creators in the film industry.
The partnership brings together two influential organizations committed to empowering marginalized voices and reshaping the film landscape. By joining forces, Urbanworld and BLACK GIRLS ROCK! aim to create new platforms for underrepresented filmmakers to showcase their work, enhance visibility, and provide a supportive space for the next generation of diverse storytellers.
Urbanworld, a premier festival dedicated to showcasing films by and about people of color, has long been a champion of diversity and inclusion in the film industry. Through this partnership, they are furthering their mission to break down barriers and expand access to resources for filmmakers who may not have the same opportunities as their mainstream counterparts. Similarly, BLACK GIRLS ROCK!, an organization that celebrates and uplifts Black women in various creative fields, has been a trailblazer in promoting empowerment and representation in entertainment.
The collaboration is expected to feature a range of initiatives, including film screenings, networking events, mentorship programs, and educational workshops designed to equip filmmakers with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in an often-challenging industry. The goal is to not only highlight the incredible talent within communities of color but also to create lasting, systemic change in the way films are made, financed, and distributed.
By working together, Urbanworld and BLACK GIRLS ROCK! hope to spark a broader movement that encourages greater representation, authenticity, and inclusivity in all areas of the entertainment world. The partnership marks an important step toward ensuring that underrepresented creators have the tools, platforms, and recognition they deserve in the evolving landscape of film and media.
