Following a powerful gathering in Atlanta, the Black Women Film Network (BWFN) hosted its 2026 Annual Summit on March 21 at the Loudermilk Conference Center, convening leading voices across film, television, and digital media for a day of conversation, recognition, and community.
Centered on the theme “Unbreakable Lens: The Power of Community,” this year’s summit highlighted the collective force propelling Black women forward in the industry. Programming included a fireside chat with S. Epatha Merkerson, moderated by Lisa Respers France, six dynamic panels, and an awards luncheon honoring standout leaders in entertainment.
Top honorees included:
- S. Epatha Merkerson — On Her Shoulders Preservation Award
- Danielle Brooks — AcceleratHER Award
- Sheila Ducksworth — ProducHER Award
- Angela Cannon — PowerbrokHER Award
- Felicia Pride — StorytellHER Award
- Vanzil Burke — AmpliphiHER Award
New this year, the summit introduced an inaugural Youth Track and expanded its programming to include conversations on AI, branded content as a funding strategy, documentary filmmaking, and short-form storytelling. The organization also continued its tradition of awarding scholarships to emerging creatives.
Sponsors and partners included NBCUniversal, AspireTV+, Amazon, Amazon Music, and Fulton Films, with product support from Camille Rose.
“As we move into our 30th year, we remain steadfast in our mission to preserve what has been and prepare the next generation for what’s to come,” said Chiquita Lockley, Board Chair of BWFN. “As the industry ebbs and flows, we will continue to serve as a steady foundation for our members across film, television, and new media.”
During the luncheon, Merkerson also announced a forthcoming contribution in support of BWFN’s 30th anniversary in 2027, underscoring the organization’s lasting impact and continued momentum.