Storytelling. It’s at the heart of our work as creatives, and is the thread that carries through all of our most impactful projects. In line with the 2025 theme for Black History Month, African Americans and Labor, we find ourselves reflecting on the many ways Black communities have shaped work, art, and education—and how, from labor movements to the creative economy, it can continue into the future.
In honor of this, we’ve teamed up with our partners at Big Picture Alliance (BPA) to celebrate some of the remarkable Black teaching artists who are shaping Philadelphia’s next generation of filmmakers. These talented creatives aren’t just producing powerful work of their own—they’re empowering young, underrepresented filmmakers through mentorship, hands-on learning, and above all, the art of storytelling.
We asked both teachers and their students to share their thoughts on why their work matters—both for their own growth as artists and for the future of Black cinema.
THE MENTORS
Kyra Knox (@kyraknox_)
Kyra Knox is an award-winning director, producer, and storyteller who understands the power of storytelling and has partnered with BPA for two years. She is known for her infectious enthusiasm and commitment to creating a safe and collaborative environment on set.
Click to meet Kyra
Share a bit about your own filmmaking/creative journey.
I didn’t go to film school, so my journey started when I took a class at PhillyCam when I was 33. When I turned 34, I quit my corporate job to pursue my dream of becoming a producer. That same year, I received my first opportunity as a runner at a boutique production company, working one day a week. Once I started walking in my path, things started happening rapidly for me in my career.
What inspired you to become a teaching artist with BPA, and how did you get started in this role?
When I started working in this industry, I had to figure out a lot independently, and I didn’t have the best experiences with artists I had looked up to. So, I wanted to mentor emerging artists, specifically Black artists, in a safe environment where they won’t get ridiculed or constantly met with negativity.
What does being a teaching artist mean to you personally?
It means everything to me. Watching my mentees flourish makes me so proud! And they know they can call me anytime because I’ll always be there to support them.
Why do you believe it’s important to empower the next generation of young filmmakers, particularly Black and other marginalized voices?
It’s crucial to empower young Black and other marginalized voices because we constantly deal with the outside actively trying to take our voice away. I always tell my mentees I will always support them in finding their voice amidst the world’s chaos. So when I see their projects, I feel like a proud mom, smiling so hard!
What are your hopes for the future of Black filmmaking, both locally in Philadelphia and beyond?
I hope we don’t have to keep fighting for our stories to be told, whether in the documentary space or narrative, because our stories also matter.
Jasmine Lynea (@jasminelynea_ & @dellacanflyfilm)
Jasmine Lynea is a non-binary queer multi-media futurist, storyteller, archivist, and teaching artist who radically dreams outside the confines of our reality. Their work explores the fluid spaces between truth and myth, presenting vibrant, unconventional ideas that offer glimpses of a loving Black and queer liberating future. Check out their next screening here!
Click to meet Jasmine
Share a bit about your own filmmaking/creative journey.
Through film, I explore the fluidity of identity and the limitless possibilities of imagination. My filmmaking journey is rooted in a passion for storytelling envisioning Black and queer futures filled with love and liberation. I craft vibrant, boundary-pushing narratives that challenge conventional norms while celebrating community and joy.
What inspired you to become a teaching artist with BPA, and how did you get started in this role?
After transitioning from my role as a full-time teacher at Samuel Fels High School, I sought new ways to engage and inspire young filmmakers. My journey with Big Picture Alliance began when I was invited to screen my short film, The Love Machine, at a Cinematics showcase. I was deeply inspired by the students’ curiosity, insightful questions, and passion for film. Their enthusiasm motivated me to join BPA as a teaching artist, where I could continue nurturing creative expression and storytelling among emerging filmmakers.
What does being a teaching artist mean to you personally?
Being a teaching artist is more about creating space for young voices to be heard, valued, and empowered. It means guiding students as they discover their endless creative potential. It is also a way I can give back and continue to learn and grow alongside the next generation of storytellers.
Why do you believe it’s important to empower the next generation of young filmmakers, particularly Black and other marginalized voices?
Empowering the next generation of young filmmakers, particularly Black and other marginalized voices, is vital for creating a more inclusive and authentic representation of diverse experiences. When these voices are uplifted, we gain stories that challenge stereotypes, reflect lived realities, and inspire new perspectives. Supporting their creative growth not only honors their unique narratives but also builds a more equitable future for the film industry and societal norms.
What are your hopes for the future of Black filmmaking, both locally in Philadelphia and beyond?
I hope to see Black filmmaking continue to thrive as a space for radical imagination, joy, and self-determined narratives. Locally in Philadelphia, I envision a stronger ecosystem where Black filmmakers have access to resources, mentorship, and platforms that amplify their voices. Beyond the city, I hope for a global landscape where Black creators are celebrated, own their stories, and redefine cinematic norms on their own terms.
THE MENTEES
Idris-Izzy Mansaray (@idris.izzy_ray)
Izzy is a production artist who went to Franklin & Marshall College for writing and filmmaking. After graduating, they connected with the Philly scene and have been involved with BPA for about 2 years now.
Click to meet Izzy
Share a bit about your own filmmaking/creative journey.
Writing on my family’s chunky computer monitor in our basement was my introduction to art. It wasn’t until I entered undergrad that I began writing for film. Before that, I always thought my passion would remain a hobby, but meeting other production artists has made me certain that enriching my life through filmmaking is something that I can and will continue to do.
What inspired you to pursue filmmaking, and how does telling Black stories—or stories from your community—play a role in your creative vision?
Filmmaking gives you the power to capture an experience and share it with your audience through sight and sound. During a time when I didn’t feel seen or heard as a queer Black person, filmmaking made me realize that my voice is worth sharing. My art is proof that my community and I exist, and reaffirming that with my work has always been my greatest joy.
What’s one lesson or piece of advice from your teaching artist that has stuck with you?
Being a filmmaker means working with multiple people, so learning to take feedback is one of the greatest skills you can have. Don’t be afraid to “kill your darlings” or readjust a script, and never be afraid to listen. Keeping an open mind to the voice of your team helps build overall confidence and lets you make well-informed creative decisions.
How has BPA mentorship helped you see new possibilities for yourself as a Black filmmaker?
Through BPA, I’ve been able to connect with numerous other Black filmmakers; seeing people who look like me and have been doing what I do for far longer has truly helped build my confidence. Simply, I now know that there’s space for me as a Black creative, and that’s been the greatest benefit to my art since I discovered I wanted to make films.
What are your hopes for the future of Black filmmaking, both locally in Philadelphia and beyond?
I want to see more variety among Black films. I want to search for “Black fantasy films with surreal elements and comedic undertones” or something so specific like that, and be able to find numerous results. I know there’s likely films like that out there now, and it excites me to know that as time goes on, more Black filmmakers will enter the scene with their unique vision.
Zora Ball (@loveezoraa)
Zora is a NATAS-nominated multimedia student reporter and is currently studying communications and media studies at Temple University. She has been building media skills with a BPA since 2022.
Click to meet Zora
Share a bit about your own filmmaking/creative journey.
Beginning from my childhood, I have always had a passion for storytelling and creating. Whether it was putting on shows with my dolls or pretending to have my own talk show, being highly imaginative has always been a part of my life.
What inspired you to pursue filmmaking, and how does telling Black stories—or stories from your community—play a role in your creative vision?
I’m inspired to create and be the change I want to see in the entertainment industry. As a creative, it is important to realize that the representations we portray in our work can construct or reinforce norms in society. In my work, I want to challenge these norms and amplify the voices of the underrepresented.
What’s one lesson or piece of advice from your teaching artist that has stuck with you?
To remain true to myself and my ideas.
How has BPA mentorship helped you see new possibilities for yourself as a Black filmmaker?
BPA’s mentorship has provided me the opportunity to build a film-family and to realize that my dreams are possible. I appreciate everyone at BPA so much!
What are your hopes for the future of Black filmmaking, both locally in Philadelphia and beyond?
I hope to see new stories emerge, and for Black creatives to continue to break barriers. I’m excited to see what the future has in store.
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