Black Writers Weekend is a dynamic, multi-day celebration of storytelling, creativity, and community. Designed to uplift and connect Black writers across genres and mediums, the weekend features a vibrant film festival, engaging artist panels and talks, and curated conversations with industry professionals. Attendees have opportunities to meet producers, publishers, and other key decision-makers while gaining insight into the business and craft of writing.

The event also includes creative socials that foster authentic relationship-building, a bustling book vendor market spotlighting Black authors and independent presses, and dedicated spaces for collaboration and inspiration. More than just a conference, Black Writers Weekend is a platform to spark ideas, amplify voices, and build meaningful connections that last a lifetime.

Awards & Prizes

Awards & Prizes
Ten films will be selected to screen during the weekend
Your film will be presented to a panel of directors and producers currently in Hollywood
One grand prize winner will receive a $500 cash prize

Rules & Terms

Submission Criteria:

20 minutes minimum run time inclusive of credits.

Pilot episodes of a web series are acceptable

Films must have been directed and/or written by a person of African descent

Entrants must be 18 years of age or older.

The competition is open to U.S. and international entries.

Films must be in the English language or contain English-language subtitles.

Films must have commenced principal photography on or after January 1, 2023

Awards:
Five films will be selected to screen during the weekend
One script will be selected for a live table read
Your film will be presented to a panel of directors and producers currently in Hollywood
One grand prize winner will receive a $500 cash prize

2 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • April Guscott

    It was an honor to be an Official Selection for the festival. I don't think anyone would know better than an artist how validating and encouraging it is to be seen by members of your community, and to be to so early in my career, this is what new filmmakers need. We need support, we need a platform, we need opportunity, we need champions and we need each other. I'm beyond grateful to AAMBC and Black Writers Weekend Festival for existing, for highlighting my work, introducing me to other great filmmakers and proving that I should continue to bet on myself and tell stories that matter to me.

    August 2025
    Helpful
  • Keenan Dailey

    We screened the first 15 minutes of our feature Brim at the Black Writers Weekend Festival. It was a wonderful experience! We met a lot of filmmakers and general audience interested in the project and our studio!

    August 2025
    Helpful