Johnnie Walker
Black Art Is Forever
Black Art Is Forever
As part of Johnnie Walker’s progressive First Strides initiative, we launched a groundbreaking grant program with global platform Blacktag for emerging filmmakers, capping off with an electrifying Tribeca Film Festival event raising a glass to their artistry and cultural influence.
Press: Forbes ︎ iHeart ︎ Fast Company ︎
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Press: Forbes ︎ iHeart ︎ Fast Company ︎
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THE INITIATIVE
The annual Johnnie Walker x Blacktag First Strides Creator Grant Program fuels Black creators with funding, mentorship, and exposure to ignite their narratives, all while joining forces with renowned writer-producer Kenya Barris to bring their next film to life.
MEET THE GRANT RECIPIENTS
The program proudly presented its initial five grant recipients on Johnnie Walker and Blacktag’s websites, displaying engaging bios and details about their current projects.
@chidozieekwensi | @amandapanda767 | @skylarrochon | @lachellerising | @juanwood2nd
To close out Tribeca Film Festival, we threw an epic celebration, spotlighting the grant recipients as our stars for the evening. Kenya Barris hosted the event, kicking things off by introducing the winners and building excitement for their upcoming films.
Recipient quotes decked out the venue walls, adding personal touches to the atmosphere that resonated with guests.
THE VIBE
Specialty drinks, vibrant decor, and a packed dance floor set the
mood for everyone to connect with fellow creatives and feel their finest.
PORTRAIT CORNER
Our lively photo booth was one of the many ways attendees shared the event on social media, which extended its reach to 2.4 million people online.
MUSIC PERFORMANCES
To close out the night, surprise live sets by 6lack, Coi Leroy, and GoGo Morrow captivated the crowd, with 6lack delivering a final toast to honor Black creators.
KEEP WALKING FOR BLACK ART
Beyond the festival grounds, our mission to amplify Black voices and visions carries on as posts for the grant recipients continue to gain impressions on social and in the streets.
