Congratulations to the First Class of the We Got Next program.
The Journey has Begun
WE GOT NEXT — And Now the World is Watching
We are proud to announce that “No Way Out,” the first film produced by our inaugural class of BIFA Student Filmmakers, has been officially selected to screen at both the Austin Lift-Off Film Festival and the American Motion Pictures Festival.
From Script to Screen:
B.I.F.A. “WE GOT NEXT” program
About the Program
Duration: 8 Weeks (2 Months)
Participants: High School/College Film Students
Program Overview:
This intensive 60-day program immerses students in the complete filmmaking process—from concept development to final cut. Designed for both high school and college-level film
students the program offers a hands-on experience in collaboration with seasoned film and
media professionals.
Program Outcome:
By the end of the program, each student will have contributed to the successful completion of at least one film or media project. Through practical application and guided mentorship, students will sharpen their technical skills, expand their creative capabilities, and build professional connections. Graduates of the program will be well-equipped to pursue careers in the film and entertainment industry.
Week Focus Area Topics Covered Key Deliverables
WEEKLY STRUCTURE OVERVIEW
1 Screenwriting Story structure, screenplay format, dialogue, character arcs, short film writing
- 2 short film scripts per team
2 Pre-Production Budgeting, scheduling, casting, shot lists, location scouting, team formation
- Pre-production package for selected script
3 Acting for Film Auditions, method acting, camera presence, blocking, working with directors
- Scene rehearsals with feedback
4 Film Production
- Camera operations, sound, lighting, directing, production roles, on-set etiquette
- Filming of student short films begins
5 Film Production (cont.)
- Continued filming, reshoots, on-set problem solving
- Completion of principal photography
6 Post-Production & Editing
- Editing basics, color grading, sound mixing, visual effects, use of DaVinci/Adobe tools
- Rough cuts of short films
7 Marketing & Promotion
- Creating posters, trailers, social media strategy, pitch decks, festival submissions
- Promotional materials for each short film
8 Streaming & Distribution
- Streaming platforms, online premieres, licensing, film festivals, building a filmmaker brand
- Virtual screening event + streaming prep
TEACHING FORMAT
- Lectures & Demonstrations: Weekly 2-4 hour workshops (TBA)
- Hands-On Practice: Lab time & production slots (TBA)
- Mentorship: Weekly check-ins with a working filmmaker or industry guest
- Team Projects: Students work in their respective expertise.
FINAL STUDENT DELIVERABLES
● One completed live production and or working on a professional production setting. (team-based)
● Production binder (script, shot list, schedule, release forms)
● Trailer + Poster for film
● Uploaded screener to Vimeo/YouTube with basic streaming knowledge
● Presentation pitch deck for future film festival or investor submissions
RESOURCES NEEDED
● Camera kits (DSLR or cinema)
● Lighting and audio gear
● Editing stations (Adobe Premiere Pro / DaVinci Resolve)
● Classroom + rehearsal space
● Screening room or virtual screening platform
● Guest instructors (writers, editors, producers, actors)
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS
● Certificate of Completion
● Panel Q&A with film industry professionals
● Internship Opportunities with local media companies
We Got Next Program
Empowering the Next Generation of Filmmakers, Innovators, and Change-makers
About the Program
The We Got Next Program is designed to empower and uplift the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers by providing financial support and
mentorship to students from underserved communities. This program seeks to bridge the gap in educational opportunities by equipping recipients with the resources needed to excel
academically, pursue their passions, and make a positive impact in their communities.
Mission and Vision
Mission: To provide equitable access to education, mentorship, and leadership development for students who demonstrate resilience, potential, and a commitment to giving back to their communities.
Vision: To cultivate a future where all students, regardless of socioeconomic background, have the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.
Program Overview
• Mentorship and Support: Access to mentors, career guidance, and networking opportunities to help students navigate their academic and professional journeys.
• Leadership Development: Workshops, seminars, and resources that equip recipients with the skills needed to lead and inspire change.
• College Programs: Identify Colleges with existing Film Programs and create partnerships with those Institutions.
Eligibility Criteria
• Students from historically marginalized or underserved
communities.
• Demonstrated academic achievement, leadership potential, and community involvement.
• A commitment to making a positive impact in their community.
What We've Done
•Successfully mentored a cohort of college interns from TSU and other institutions.
• Guided them through the process of writing, directing, and producing their first short films.
• Final films will be submitted to film festivals, including the BIFA Film Festival.
• Partnered with the Lawson Academy, a local middle school serving underserved youth.
• Students visited film sets, observer production, and interacted with film professionals.
The Next Phase: The Lawson Academy Film Lab
Goal: To build a sustainable on-campus film education program at the Lawson Academy.
Program Features:
- Weekly hands-on film workshops.
- Curriculum for both in front of and behind the camera training.
- Mentorship from industry professionals.
- Year-end student short film showcase.
Impact Projection:
- Reach 100+ middle school students annually.
- Develop early pipelines into high school and college film programs.
- Empower self-expression and cultural pride through storytelling.
Amplify the Voices of Tomorrow
Help us amplify the voices of tomorrow, today.
This isn't just a film - it's a movement of transformation.
Partner with us, and let's build the storytellers the world's been waiting to hear from.
Don't Take our Word for It
Hear directly from our interns about how the Black Independent Filmmakers Association Internship Program transformed their passion into purpose.
They didn’t just learn film—they lived it.
From script to screen, they found their voice, their tribe, and their calling.
This is where futures are made.
This is the BIFA experience.
Summer Programs for Youths and Students
We Got Next: VOICE THROUGH FILM
BIFA Student Internship Program
We Got Next: VOICE THROUGH FILM is a hands-on internship and mentorship program designed for students who want to explore the power of storytelling through film and media. Whether they dream of becoming a director, writer, or editor—or just want to find their voice—this program gives them the tools to do it.
What the Program Offers:
- Film Industry Exposure: Learn directly from award-winning filmmakers, screenwriters, and media professionals.
- ✍️ Creative Expression: Develop writing, speech, and storytelling skills to build confidence and find your unique voice.
- Real-World Learning: Apply math, organization, and communication skills to budgeting, scheduling, and planning your own short film.
- ️ Hands-On Experience: From script to screen—you’ll create your own original short film and premiere it in a community showcase.
- Portfolio Ready: Graduates will leave with a completed project, valuable industry connections, and real experience for college and career applications.
✅ Program Highlights:
- Open to all experience levels.
- Free to apply – we believe access should never be a barrier to opportunity.
- Limited spots available – selected participants will be interviewed before admission.
- Hosted by the Black Independent Filmmakers Association (BIFA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Powered by the Community
This program is made possible through generous donations and sponsorships. Every contribution helps us provide students with resources, equipment, and mentorship opportunities.
Applications open soon!
Let’s help the next generation turn their ideas into impact.
Because their story matters. And it deserves to be told.
