MN WIFT Melanated & Inclusion
This is one of our newest cultivations and one we feel strongly about. We want to provide inclusive experience and opportunities for everyone, which is why we are proud to offer MN WIFT Melanated & Inclusion. To create an intentional, supportive space within MN WIFT that centers and uplifts Black, Brown, LGBTQIA+, and underrepresented creatives in film, television, theater, and media—offering real community, mentorship, visibility, and opportunity.
Our Vision
- Build a safe, empowering space for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+, accessible challenged creatives.
- Foster real relationships through mixers, talks, workshops, training, and community engagement.
- Establish this committee as a prominent and essential branch of MN WIFT.
Melanated & Inclusion EVENTS
In Front of the Camera, Behind the Lens
In Front of the Camera, Behind the Lens
is a curated panel and community conversation designed to connect, educate, and inspire underrepresented creatives across Minnesota’s film, television, theater, and live performance industries. This is not intended to be a traditional panel. Instead, our focus is on authentic connection and building foundational relationships among BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and non-binary creatives — from students to elders, across every discipline in front of and behind the camera. Be on the look our for our next panel discussion in the Spring of 2026.
Previous panelists include:
- 1st Assistant Director, Founder, President City of Lakes Productions, Inc, Van Hayden
- Deputy Director of Explore Minnesota Film, Nell Lawrenz-Wareham
- Casting Director, Sara Isaacson
These events are made possible by our generous sponsors:
BLovely Production, Lemae Photography,
JahPenée Productions,
PAR365,
Mike Ross Visuals.
