African Diaspora International Film Festival 2024 Line Up Announced

The 32nd Annual African Diaspora International Film Festival in New York (ADIFF NY 2024) presents an impressive lineup, featuring icons such as Miriam Makeba, Denzel Washington, Raoul Peck, Sergio Giral, Ian Gabriel, Lázaro Ramos, Rolf de Heer, Maryse Condé, Billy Woodberry, and many more. With an eclectic selection of 65 films from 32 countries—half of which are US and NY premieres—ADIFF NY 2024 is set to captivate audiences across the tri-state area and beyond. Screenings will take place at Teachers College, The Forum at Columbia University, Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theatre, and Cinema Village from November 29 to December 15, 2024.

One of the festival highlights is Ian Gabriel’s "Death of a Whistleblower", a film that explores a web of conspiracy and corruption in South Africa. Mr. Gabriel’s work is among the significant films in the 30 Years of the New South Africa program, which presents a panorama of pivotal moments in South African cinema. Other highlights of the program include Ernest Cole: Lost and Found by Raoul Peck, Sierra’s Gold (awarded Best South African Film at Durban 2024), Quantum, starring Bohang Moeko (recognized for his performances in South African TV dramas such as Ring of Lies and Is'thunzi), Legacy - The Decolonized History of South Africa, Joe Bullet (a South African classic), and Banned.

"Power Alley/Levante" by Lillah Halla from Brazil is the centerpiece of ADIFF-NY 2024. The story of Sofia opens the door to the lives of a group of young women members of a volleyball team in São Paulo. Sofia has an opportunity to advance her career in Chile, but an unexpected event disrupts her dreams. The narrative then takes the viewer deeper into contemporary Brazilian society and its pressing issues. 2023 FIPRESCI Prize Winner at the Cannes Film Festival, where it was featured in the Un Certain Regard section.

Nastasya Generalova is the daughter of an African-American father and a Russian mother. In "Breaking Boundaries", we follow Nastasya as she pursues her goal of becoming a member of the USA artistic gymnastics team. She faces financial obstacles, racial discrimination, and the inherent difficulties of this incredibly demanding sport with courage and determination. This is a story of resilience, perseverance, and determination.

The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos is another highlight of ADIFF NY 2024. Fresh from TIFF 2024, this film is based on a true story. Set in Lagos, this is not Nollywood; the acting, the story, and the work of the Agbajowo Collective give this film, seven years in the making, the type of powerful narrative that has marked African cinema.

The Closing Night film is a case study in colonialism and media. Colonialism is central to the narrative pertaining to Africa and the African diaspora. "Selling A Colonial War" is a detailed analysis of how colonial forces build structures of manipulation and deceit to justify the stealing and control of territories and people. It is a revealing film about the Netherlands’ colonial past. 2023 Winner of the IDFA ReFrame Award for Creative Use of Archive.

NEW YORK AND US PREMIERES

"Father and Soldier": Omar Sy - best known for his role in Lupin on Netflix - plays the role of a father who follows his son, recruited by the French Army, into the battlefields of Europe during World War I in order to protect him and bring him back home to Senegal. Official Selection, Un Certain Regard, Cannes 2023.

"Amal": Amal, played masterfully by Lubna Azabal (The Blue Caftan), is a teacher in Brussels who is committed to giving her students a broader understanding of life and humanity. Her commitment, however, has a tragic ending.

"Disko Africa: A Malagasy Story": Kwame struggles to make a living in a clandestine mine. He is suddenly forced to return due to an unexpected tragedy. Winner Special Mention at the 2024 Berlin International Film Festival.

"Kidnapping Inc.": Doc and Zoe are two hapless kidnappers tasked with what appears to be a simple abduction for hire, only to find out that it’s anything but, and they end up in the middle of a political conspiracy. Director Bruno Mourral combines a great sense of humor with a clear understanding of the tragic reality of his country to give us an accurate portrayal of a chaotic environment. Official Selection Sundance 2024.
Ain’t No Back to a Merry Go Round: A page from the Civil Rights Movement in Maryland, this is the story of a multiracial organized movement that led to the desegregation of Glen Echo Amusement Park in Maryland.

"Mother Suriname": Through the eyes of a Surinamese woman, we witness the Dutch Colonial Empire’s brutality and inhumanity. The film combines stunning cinematography with evocative storytelling to highlight the cultural heritage and resilience of the Surinamese people.

The Wall Street Boy, Kipkemboi: With his life in jeopardy and jail almost a certainty, one question remains, how could a farm boy bring down the global financial system and how far is the international world order willing to go to silence his story?

PROGRAMS
Historically, ADIFF curates programs around different themes that place a high level of reflection at the forefront, using films as a backdrop. This year's programs include:
• School Program: Highlights of the program: The Great Debaters and The Wall Street Boy.
• Senior Program: Music Pictures: New Orleans.
• Parisian Tales: Highlight of the program: Screening of The Parisienne Uncovered followed by a conversation with filmmaker and activist Rokhaya Diallo.
• An Evening With Billy Woodberry: Billy Woodberry, one of the key figures of the LA Rebellion, will travel from Lisbon to screen and discuss two of his films, Bless Their Little Hearts and Mario, his latest film on the life of the African leader Mario de Andrade.
• Caribbean Leaders: Spotlight on Errol Barrow (Barbados), Frantz Fanon (Martinique), Walter Rodney (British Guiana) and conversation with Arlen Harris, director of Walter Rodney, What They Don’t Want You to Know.
• Festival Roundtables:
- "History and Legacy of Racial Relations in Latin America" will focus on the historical factors that continue to shape discourse and attitudes toward Latino people of African descent.
- "South Africa: 1994 2024, A Conversation" will take a deeper look at the current state of affairs in South Africa, 30 years after the end of apartheid.
• ADIFF Mini Virtual Festival: Twelve ADIFF films available virtually, most of them worldwide.

For more information about the 32nd Annual African Diaspora International Film Festival, please e-mail pr@nyadiff.org. Festival website: www.nyadiff.org, Facebook and twitter is @nyadiff, Instagram: ny_adiff

The African Diaspora International Film Festival is a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization.

The 32nd Annual New York African Diaspora International Film Festival is made possible thanks to the support of the following institutions and individuals: ArtMattan Films, New York State Council on the Arts, The Harlem Community Development Corporation, The New York City Council in the Arts, West Harlem Development Corporation, The Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone Development Corporation administered by LMCC, The Office of the Vice President for Diversity and Community Affairs and The George Clement Bond Center for African Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, The International Organization of La Francophonie New York, The Netherlands consulate-general in New York, Villa Albertine and the French Embassy in the United States. Funded in part by a grant from the New York City Tourism Foundation. WNYC is a media partner of the African Diaspora International Film Festival.
http://www.NYADIFF.org

ABOUT THE AFRICAN DIASPORA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Established in 1993, the African Diaspora International Film Festival (ADIFF) is a Harlem based minority-led not-for profit international film festival that presents, interprets and educates about films that explore the human experience of people of color all over the world in order to inspire imaginations, disrupt stereotypes and help transform attitudes that perpetuate injustice.

The mission of The African Diaspora International Film Festival (ADIFF) is to expand the traditional views and perceptions of what the Black experience is by showcasing award-winning socially relevant documentary and fiction films about people of color, from Peru to Zimbabwe, from the USA to Belgium and from New Zealand to Jamaica

Commenting on the line up of ADIFF Chicago 2019, film critic Kathleen Sachs of the Chicago Readers wrote: “The films in the 17th Annual African Diaspora International Film Festival – Chicago do what much media and even the public school system fail to do: educate. Through robust programming that gives meaning to the word "diverse," the selections in this year's festival illuminate the experiences of those living in the African diaspora around the world. The New York-based husband-and-wife programmers, Reinaldo Barroso-Spech and Diarah N'Daw-Spech, have chosen more than a dozen films that, through a variety of modes and genres, further dimensionalize already complex issues specific to those living in these communities. Naturally, documentary lends itself to this mission, though several narrative features and a short fiction add to the plenitude of information.”

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Revitalized community garden opens on campus of Coppin State

Leaders from the American Heart Association, Coppin State University and the University of Maryland Medical System recently celebrated the opening of the revitalized community garden on Coppin State's campus.

The revitalization of the Coppin State garden is a significant milestone in the American Heart Association’s efforts to enhance nutrition security and support access to healthy food in under-resourced urban and rural communities in Maryland.

“As the American Heart Association embarks on its Second Century, our commitment to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere remains unwavering. One crucial way we achieve this is by addressing food and nutrition insecurity in our communities,” Tracy Brazelton, Executive Director, American Heart Association, Baltimore & Greater Maryland division, stated.

“A healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables is a proven path to strong cardiovascular health and overall well-being. However, we must ensure that more people have access to these nutritious foods to help prevent chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke,” she added.

The community garden at Coppin State University will provide access to fresh produce that may be hard to find or expensive in local stores, helping to overcome barriers to healthy eating.

Coppin administration plans to make fresh produce from the garden available at its on-campus food resource center, Coppin Corner. Launched in spring 2023, Coppin Corner provides essential food and supplies to all students.

“The Community Garden will do more than just supply fresh, campus-grown produce. It also offers students valuable opportunities to engage in nutrition education, participate in service-learning projects, and become actively involved in the gardening process. This collaboration enhances both their academic experience and promotes healthy lifestyle choices, fostering their holistic development,” said Dorothy Parrish-Harris, Assistant Vice President and Dean of Students at Coppin State University.

This project marks the first of several AHA community gardens to be launched or revitalized with support from University of Maryland Medical System.

“At University of Maryland Medical System, we are committed to the health of our communities. That means not just addressing physical health, but addressing social determinants of health like nutrition security,” said Dr. Esa Davis, Associate Vice President for Community Health at UMMS.

“Nutrition security goes beyond simply having enough food; it encompasses access to nutritious, affordable, and culturally appropriate foods that support overall health and well-being,” she added.

In Baltimore, approximately 22.2% of residents are food insecure, equating to an annual meal gap of 24 million meals, according to Maryland Hunger Solutions, highlighting the urgent need for initiatives that address nutrition security and promote equitable access to healthy foods.

Plans are underway to open gardens in southern Harford County by spring 2025 and the Eastern Shore in 2026.

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Daymond John Announces 5th Annual Black Entrepreneurs Day

Daymond John, entrepreneur and investor, proudly announces the 5th Annual Black Entrepreneurs Day (BED), taking place on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024, at the iconic Fox Theater in Atlanta — the historic birthplace of the civil rights movement and a thriving hub of Black culture and excellence. This year, BED will be free for all guests to attend and include branded activations as well as light bites and drinks for sale — promising an unforgettable experience that aims to entertain, inform, and inspire.

Founded in 2020 in response to the community's challenges following the tragic events surrounding George Floyd, Black Entrepreneurs Day was created to shift the narrative from destruction to empowerment. With a commitment to supporting Black entrepreneurs, the event aims to educate and inspire through conversation with iconic Black leaders and celebrity friends, includes superstar musical performances, and will provide essential financial support through its NAACP Powershift Grant program.

Tickets for Black Entrepreneurs Day 2024 are free and available for registration at BlackEntrepreneursDay.com now. 

A Star-Studded Experience

The event will feature engaging conversations with an inspiring lineup of guests, including Grammy-winning artist and philanthropist Kelly Rowland; the iconic entertainer Flavor Flav, known for his unique blend of humor and cultural influence; influential media personality Charlamagne tha God, celebrated for his thought-provoking discussions on social issues; Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles (presented by J.P. Morgan Wealth Management), a role model of tenacity and excellence; and financial educators Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings from Earn Your Leisure, passionate advocates for financial literacy. Additionally, attendees will be treated to a live performance by Atlanta’s own multi-platinum rapper 2 Chainz, presented by Raising Cane’s. Known for his dynamic style and impactful lyrics, 2 Chainz will energize the audience and celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship. Attendees will also enjoy the Entrepreneur Plaza pre-event, showcasing brand activations and pop-ups from sponsors. Past Black Entrepreneurs Day guests include Whoopi Goldberg, Spike Lee, Shaquille O’Neal, Kevin Hart, Tyra Banks, Michael Strahan, and many more.

NAACP Small Business Powershift Grant Program 

From Oct. 24 to Nov. 1, entrepreneurs can apply for the Powershift Grant HERE. By the conclusion of BED 2024, the initiative will have awarded over $1 million in grants to more than 40 Black-owned businesses, fostering economic growth and innovation in the community. This year, partners JPMorganChase, Hilton, T-Mobile for Business and Constant Contact will contribute a total of $100,000 in grants, with each grant amounting to $25,000.

"Atlanta isn’t just a city; it’s the heartbeat of Black culture, entrepreneurship, and resilience. When we considered moving Black Entrepreneurs Day from The Apollo, there was no question in our minds — Atlanta is the 'Black Mecca.' It’s where innovation meets history, and it embodies the spirit of empowerment that we celebrate at this event. We are excited to honor that legacy and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs right here in the heart of the community,” said Daymond John. “I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support of Black businesses; they are truly walking the walk in a time when commitment to diversity and inclusion is more important than ever."

Key Partners

JPMorganChase, a proud supporter of Black Entrepreneurs Day since its inception five years ago, will return as a prominent sponsor of this year’s event. The firm offers financial tools and resources to help business owners start, run and grow their businesses while working towards their personal financial goals. This year, JPMorganChase and J.P. Morgan Wealth Management will take center stage, powering conversations led by Daymond John with Olympian Jordan Chiles and Lanän Clark, Regional Director at J.P. Morgan Wealth Management. To learn more about JPMorganChase’s offerings, visit blackentrepreneursday.com/jpmorganchase.

A returning partner and continuous supporter of entrepreneurs, Hilton will introduce a new discussion focused on the ways in which the company is dedicated to meeting entrepreneurs where they are, providing them with valuable networking opportunities and travel tools, as well as new business opportunities. As the home away from home for millions of entrepreneurs every day, Hilton takes seriously its commitment to be a powerful engine of opportunity. To learn more about Hilton’s support and travel tools, visit Hilton for Business.

At Black Entrepreneurs Day, Constant Contact will showcase how it helps entrepreneurs succeed by providing them with the marketing tools and guidance they need to build communities, engage with their customers, and generate sales. Joining Daymond John on stage for a roundtable conversation will be Constant Contact brand ambassadors Tamika Catchings, a four-time Olympic gold medalist, WNBA Hall of Famer, and owner of Tea’s Me Cafe, and Scharrell Jackson, international keynote speaker, executive coach, author, and founder of Leadership in Heels. In addition, Constant Contact will offer professional headshots at the Fox Theater, helping entrepreneurs elevate their personal branding. To learn more about Constant Contact, visit ConstantContact.com.

As a proud returning partner of Black Entrepreneurs Day, T-Mobile for Business is excited to join Daymond John for the fifth year of inspiration, education, and celebration. This year’s partnership will spotlight the T-Mobile for Business community alongside Daymond, showcasing the journey of entrepreneurship while harnessing the intersection of mobile connectivity and emerging technology to grow and scale business. To learn more about how entrepreneurs can take their business further, visit https://www.t-mobile.com/business/small-midsize-business.

America’s Navy is a new, proud supporter of Black Entrepreneurs Day, showcasing the journeys of sailors who have successfully transitioned into entrepreneurship. The Navy is the most highly skilled, technologically advanced military force in the world, and attendees will learn about the training and resources available in the Navy that help prepare service members to start and grow their own businesses. Through inspiring stories and interactive exhibits, the Navy aims to highlight the breadth and depth of skills and discipline sailors bring to the entrepreneurial landscape.

As part of the festivities at Black Entrepreneurs Day, Raising Cane's — a brand deeply committed to empowering entrepreneurial efforts across communities — is proud to present a live performance by acclaimed rapper 2 Chainz. This partnership underscores Raising Cane's dedication to fostering small business growth and entrepreneurship, recognizing their vital role in driving economic development and strengthening local communities. Through initiatives like these, Raising Cane’s continues to champion opportunities that inspire and uplift future business leaders.

Lowe’s, a longtime supporter of entrepreneurship, workforce development, community partnerships, and Black Entrepreneurs Day, will host a conversation between Daymond John and Quonta “Que” Vance, Lowe’s Executive Vice President, Pro and Home Services.

Salesforce, the #1 AI CRM, is a proud sponsor of Black Entrepreneurs Day for the fourth year in a row, helping entrepreneurs and organizations of any size reimagine their business for the world of AI. This year, Daymond John will host AI for All, a conversation presented by Salesforce that will showcase how Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) students are gaining AI skills and certifications through Salesforce’s free learning platform Trailhead. Check out its AI for All announcement to learn more.

Join Us — FREE Tickets 

Don’t miss this landmark event celebrating Black excellence and entrepreneurship. Register for in-person tickets and apply for the NAACP PowerShift Grant at blackentrepreneursday.com. 

Streaming and Access 

Black Entrepreneurs Day will be live-streamed for free on the Black Entrepreneurs Day website and all of Daymond John’s social media platforms. Budding businesspersons and existing entrepreneurs around the globe can stream the event on BlackEntrepreneursDay.com and connect on social channels.