Reel Impact Grant Partners

Funding awarded to help support this organisation’s growth as the first Black-owned virtual production facility specialising in action content.

“Filmdhit is the first previz fight action studio owned by a black female action director and Reel impact has been a game changer for myself and my company. As an action director and fight arranger for film and TV, we have constantly been overlooked in this male dominated genre. We truly appreciate the support Reel Impact has been able to offer and also its belief in our vision for the future.”

With their grant, Film Locos will organise networking events and practical masterclasses with the aim of boosting visibility and access for British Latin American crew in the UK film and TV industry, showcasing their contributions and potential. 

“Many in our community lack the information and resources to enter the industry. And those who are already in the industry don’t seem to know where others like us work. By providing these assets, we aim to empower Global Majority British crew members and demonstrate that they can achieve their dreams.” – Maysa Monção Gabrielli and Victor Rios

Mama Youth will use their grant to provide advanced leadership and management training to 10 alumni from underrepresented backgrounds, equipping them with the skills and networks necessary to break barriers and ascend to senior roles in the TV and media industry.

“This initiative will ignite change by fostering greater diversity in leadership, creating a more inclusive and representative industry for future generations.” - Anthony Knight

The TV Collective will use Reel Impact’s support to drive important conversations and amplify under-represented voices from the Black and Global Majority on a global stage through the development of their industry podcast platform.

Wonder Women, will be using the fund to recruit core staff and help elevate the careers of mid-senior level women from under-represented and marginalised groups through the organisation’s year-long, nationwide mentoring programme. 

“With this grant, we’ll expand our core team and scale our game-changing Wonder Women Mentoring Programme to support the retention of the incredible women the industry stands to lose. Together, we rise!” - Ria Hebden

A mentor and leadership trainer, Aaqil will use the grant to enable talent from the Black and Global Majority to enhance their careers in film and TV. 

“I’ve experienced good and bad in the industries I’ve worked in and see that the same challenges and opportunities today hinder many who’re navigating their careers and business growth. As a mentor and leadership trainer I know authentic and relatable coaching is needed.”

A director and writer, Dean will use the grant to take his short film ​‘The Mediator’, to the St Louis International Film Festival, helping his diverse cast and crew to access opportunities in both the UK and US film markets.

“This trip will be invaluable in advancing my career, opening doors for distribution and future collaborations, and further establishing my presence in the film industry.”

Georgie runs Rising Waves, an organisation that tackles the critical underrepresentation of British East and Southeast Asian talent in the arts and media. Georgie will use the grant to help fund mentorship programs, workshops, and community events.

“This funding will allow us to tailor our programs to address the specific barriers British East and Southeast Asian talent faces – such as limited access to opportunities and unconscious bias in hiring – and provide practical pathways into key on-screen and off-screen roles.”

Jessica will use the grant to fund her project that provides training in camera and shooting skills to talent from the Black and Global Majority, with the aim of addressing the imbalance within the TV industry. 

“By creating a peer group dedicated to advancing practical shooting skills, we can boost representation behind the lens and empower a new cohort of minority storytellers.”

Samantha is a senior leader working in Talent Development and will use the grant to enhance her leadership skills and industry connections in the UK’s sports broadcasting sector. 

“This grant isn’t just about personal development; it’s about creating a ripple effect of opportunity. By strengthening my ability to develop talent and forge industry connections, we’re laying the groundwork for a more inclusive sports media landscape.”

Cassie will use the Reel Impact grant to offer 50 people free access to an extensive online course that will equip them with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

“I hope to drive meaningful change and help reshape the industry for the better by opening doors to greater inclusion and innovation in media and technology education.”

With the funding from Reel Impact, Martin will create a new space for Black and Global Majority creatives in the West Midlands with the aim of tackling barriers in the industry facing talent from the Black and Global Majority, around infrastructure, investment, and opportunities. 

“Through design labs, we will bring together collective intelligence to develop strategies that tackle the real barriers in our industry. Ultimately, this will help to drive a shift toward practical, long-term solutions that build stronger connections and empower emerging talent.”

Chitra will help build a network of talent from the Black and Global Majority in UK Children’s media, helping to bring them closer to new opportunities and employers.