It Takes a Village: Where Community Meets Young, Black Filmmakers
- cindysasha
- Aug 4
- 2 min read
This year, I had the absolute honour of being invited by Tsion Martin, founder of Bridge the Gap and It Takes a Village to join the judging panel for their film festival in Brixton, South London.
From the moment I stepped into the festival, I could feel the energy and creativity buzzing in the air. Over the weekend, I had the privilege of watching an incredible line-up of films by talented young Black filmmakers. Each film carried a unique perspective, bold, unapologetic and brimming with stories that need to be seen and heard.
As a judge, it was both inspiring and challenging to select winners because the standard was so high. These filmmakers are not just telling stories; they are reshaping the industry, pushing boundaries, and bringing forward voices that too often go unheard.
What makes this festival so powerful is its foundation. Bridge The Gap Studios founded The ITAV Film Festival to recognise and honour the unseen journeys of underrepresented creative young people through film. The ITAV also celebrates the ‘villages’ of family, advocates, caregivers and innovators who have supported their ideas, growth and success. This ethos could be felt in every conversation, every screening and every round of applause throughout the weekend.
What struck me most was the sense of community. The festival wasn’t just about showcasing talent, it was about creating a space that nurtures, encourages, and uplifts. There was a shared understanding in the room: representation matters, and platforms like It Takes a Village are vital for the future of film.
I left the weekend feeling energised and deeply inspired. Being part of something that celebrates diversity, creativity, and storytelling at its finest was truly special. I’m so grateful to Tsion and the team for including me, and even more excited to see where these incredible young filmmakers will go next.
