The LADFN was set up in February 2022 with Michelle Peterkin-Walker and Khaleb Brooks. Our new coordinator Bea Freeman, joined us in March 2023 after Khaleb moved on. Liverpool with a history of diversity, protest, slavery and incredible cultural production, acts as a point of departure to engage the many facets of our identities.
It’s a collective of Black Filmmakers, Creatives, Practitioners from the African Diaspora who meet monthly. Our multifaceted members come from a range of disciplines with multiple skilled – filmmakers, artist, sound engineers, actors, comedians, writers, caterers, performers, healers et al. Networking gathering are vital in helping new and returning residents (artists, filmmakers, musicians) integrate into Liverpool’s Cultural and Creative community.
LADFN offers educational support to Black Liverpool filmmakers through workshops with industry professionals and opportunities to skill share technical skills. Outlets to get involved in other members’ film projects, gaining hands on experience and work opportunities. There are opportunities to show work through network meetings, film festivals and screenings; as well as opportunities to produce work through micro grants and commissions. Informal discussions about artist work, where feedback, support and/or advice can be offered. Collectively providing foundational support to cultivate ideas and imaginings.
We compile and send out monthly newsletters promoting members activities, funding opportunities, creative and cultural events, host film evening and social events. We offer micro grants, film commissions and venue space for LADFN related activities.
Members can participate in a range of social activities and events provided by LADFN and its members E.G. Comedy Nights, Performance, Dance and Music workshops, Art and Craft sessions, Talks/Presentations and be inspired by the creative practises of artists. We are steadily increasing our membership, with over 52 subscribers to the collective, housing a variety of expertise.
Our aim is to encourage anyone interested in filmmaking and creative arts, to join our network and explore potential creative opportunities, connect with active, progressive, creative people, sharing ideas and evolving.
By bringing together filmmakers of African ancestry, we seek to bring to the forefront the Black creative presence in the city and raise the visibility of our African Diasporic culture.