Illumin8 Entertainment & Pizarro Creative Announce The Upcoming Short Film “KAMALA”

Illumin8 Entertainment and Pizarro Creative are thrilled to announce the upcoming release of KAMALA, a highly anticipated short film that offers a fresh, original perspective on the life and journey of Vice President Kamala Harris. Set to debut in theaters nationwide this October, KAMALA is a poignant exploration of resilience, well-being, and the pursuit of justice, told through the lens of first-time directors Samir Zakir and Gerard Pizarro. Tracey Bing of Badabing Pictures is a producer on the film and is overseeing release strategy and distribution.

KAMALA is a project born from the collaboration of underdogs telling an underdog story, with co-directors Zakir and Pizarro bringing their unique vision to the screen. The film captures Kamala Harris’s unwavering dedication to well-being, both personally and in her service to the nation, while delving into the conflicts, trust issues, and untold stories that have shaped her journey.

Kamala is more than just a film—it’s a piece of art that offers an original perspective on one of the most influential figures of our time. Through innovative storytelling, animation, and interviews with celebrities, family, close friends, leading political figures and more, KAMALA reveals the untold stories and personal sacrifices that have shaped Vice President Harris’s journey. The symbolism of the lotus flower, representing growth and resilience, is woven throughout the film.

“This film is about more than Kamala’s political journey—it’s about her humanity. It’s about the joyous warrior she is, working to elevate the well-being of all people,” said Gerard Pizarro, who co-directed, wrote, and produced the film alongside Samir Zakir. “As an underdog and new filmmaker, myself, I’m honored to tell the story of another underdog—a Black and Indian woman who has broken barriers and inspired millions.”

Meet the Team Behind KAMALA:

• Samir Zakir (Co-Director, Writer, Producer): A visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, Samir Zakir is known for his commitment to creating positive cultural change through storytelling. As the Founder and CEO of Illumin8 Entertainment, he has dedicated his career to producing entertaining yet impactful content that resonates worldwide, focusing on themes of mental well-being and holistic wellness.

• Gerard Pizarro (Co-Director, Writer, Producer): A former trial lawyer and advocate for social justice, Gerard Pizarro has transitioned from the courtroom to filmmaking, bringing a deep sense of empathy and human connection to his work. KAMALA is a personal project for Pizarro, reflecting his own family’s story of resilience and the powerful influence of his immigrant mother.

• Wendy Pizarro, Esq. (Producer): Wendy Pizarro, an award-winning attorney and biopharma executive, is a trailblazer in health and wellness innovation. As Chief Legal Officer and Chief Diversity Officer at Calidi Biotherapeutics, Wendy has been a vocal advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her passion for wellness and justice aligns closely with Kamala Harris’s own mission, inspiring her to bring this story to the screen.

• Bakari Sellers (Producer): Bakari Sellers joins the KAMALA team as a Consulting Producer. Bakari Sellers was the youngest member of the South Carolina state legislature and the youngest African American elected official in the nation. Sellers is a CNN political analyst

Michael Bailey Named President of the American Veterinary Medical Association

Dr. Michael Q. Bailey, a board-certified veterinary radiologist and researcher, became the AVMA’s first Black President-Elect, pledging to offer “robust, effective, and diverse leadership that inspires innovation.”

Dr. Bailey earned his undergraduate degree from Rutgers University's College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences. He then obtained his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from Tuskegee University in Alabama and later completed a comprehensive internship and radiology residency at Michigan State University.

Dr. Bailey has served on the faculties at Tuskegee, Michigan State University and The Ohio State University. He pioneered Ohio's inaugural private practice advanced veterinary CT imaging services and launched referral and emergency imaging facilities in Pittsburgh. As the lead radiologist for a nationwide veterinary practice with more than 1,000 facilities, he was pivotal in nationwide distributed veterinary imaging services and telemedicine. Dr. Bailey currently serves as the director of medical innovations in telemedicine for a global telemedicine consultant business, where he brings his extensive telemedicine expertise to the forefront. Dr. Bailey also was an AAAS/AVMA Congressional fellow, serving as a full-time scientific legislative advisor in a congressional office.

Dr. Bailey has been engaged in organized veterinary volunteer leadership at the state and national levels. His leadership journey includes serving on the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association (PVMA) board and as PVMA president. He recently completed a six-year term on the AVMA Board of Directors, representing District 2, which encompasses New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia.

“The AVMA as a member association thrives on our collective efforts,” Dr. Bailey said. “Our esteemed members and colleagues are not just a part of the AVMA but its essence and backbone. Together, we can inspire our colleagues back home to join this journey of service. Their involvement is essential to our collective success.”

Dr. Bernard Harris Jr. Honored with Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr. Bernard A. Harris Jr., astronaut and former CEO of the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI), has been honored with the esteemed Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Harris, the first African American astronaut to walk in space, has dedicated his life to advancing STEM education and inspiring future generations.

Through his work with the Harris Foundation and Institute, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on education, health and wealth, and his role as a founding board member of NMSI, Dr. Harris has championed educational opportunities for students across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. His efforts have been instrumental in promoting curiosity, scientific exploration and equitable access to education.

"Dr. Harris's unwavering commitment to STEM education has transformed countless lives and opened doors for students from all walks of life," said Jeremy Anderson, CEO of the National Math and Science Initiative. "His dedication and vision have not only inspired future scientists, engineers, and innovators but have also set a high standard for leadership and service. This award is a well-deserved recognition of his lifetime of impactful work."

The Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by the office of the President of the United States, celebrates individuals who exemplify exceptional commitment to building a stronger nation through community service. Dr. Harris received this honor for his relentless efforts in advancing STEM education and investing in communities across the nation.

"I am deeply honored to receive the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award," said Dr. Bernard A. Harris Jr. "This recognition is not just a personal milestone, but a testament to the collective efforts of all those dedicated to advancing STEM education and empowering our youth. Together, we are fostering a future where every student, regardless of background, has the opportunity to pursue a STEM education and achieve their full potential."

Other notable recipients of the award include former astronaut and STEM advocate Leland Melvin, retired NASA Administrator Major General Charles F. Bolden Jr., and astronaut and health advocate Dr. Yvonne Cagle.

About the National Math and Science Initiative

(NMSI) The National Math and Science Initiative is dedicated to improving student outcomes in math and science, particularly in underserved communities. By providing educators with high-quality professional development and support, NMSI ensures that all students have access to the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. For more information, visit http://www.nms.org.

A statue honoring John Lewis replaces former Confederate monument in Georgia

A statue honoring civil rights hero and US Congressman John Lewis was unveiled Saturday outside of Atlanta, replacing a Confederate monument that had stood there for more than a century.

Postal Service Issues Vibrant New Stamp to Honor Kwanzaa

The U.S. Postal Service continues its longstanding tradition of celebrating Kwanzaa, the annual Pan-African holiday that has united countless African American families and communities since its inception in 1966.

The first-day-of-issue event for the Kwanzaa stamp is free and open to the public. News of the stamp is being shared with the hashtag #KwanzaaStamp.

Who: Roderick Sallay, USPS director of legislative policy and strategic development

When: Wednesday, Sept. 25, at 12:30 p.m. EDT

Where:Sen. John Heinz History Center

1212 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222

RSVP: Attendees are encouraged to register at: usps.com/kwanzaastamp.

Background:

Kwanzaa, observed from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, celebrates family, community and culture. Rooted in ancient and modern first-harvest festivals, Kwanzaa incorporates traditions from across the African continent to foster unity and pride.

Centered around the holiday’s seven founding principles — unity (umoja), self-determination (kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (ujima), cooperative economics (ujamaa), purpose (nia), creativity (kuumba), and faith (imani), the holiday emphasizes the rich heritage and aspirations of the African American community.

It is a festive time for rejoicing in the prospect of health, prosperity and good luck in the coming year. It is also a time for contemplation and recollection of past hardships, faced by both individuals and communities, and the ways in which history can inform and affect future happiness.

Ethel Kessler, an art director for USPS, designed the stamp with original artwork by Ehua Holmes.

The Kwanzaa stamp is being issued as a Forever stamp in panes of 20. This stamp will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price.