Sankofa Film Institute
Nurturing the next generation of storytellers
What is the Sankofa Film Institute?
At the Sankofa Film Institute, we believe in the power of storytelling rooted in cultural heritage. Our approach to film education draws from the rich traditions of indigenous narratives, where the art of storytelling has been passed down through generations. Just as our ancestors used various mediums - from cave art to music to express their unique world views, we train our students to develop their own narrative accent, transforming personal and cultural stories into compelling cinematic works.
Our workshop series offers an integrative and holistic approach to film education, combining theoretical insights with hands-on practical experience. Participants will explore the entire creative process, from the birth of a story idea to the final stages of film editing. We emphasize the importance of film editing as the key to mastering screenwriting, directing, and cinematography. By delving into these interconnected disciplines, students gain a deep understanding of how to craft stories that resonate on the screen. Our unique pedagogy empowers students to discover and refine their individual narrative identity, preparing them to become influential voices in the global film industry.
At the Sankofa Film Institute, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers who will carry forward the traditions of their communities while pushing the boundaries of cinematic storytelling.
SFI’s workshops are non-accredited and do not attempt to replace a film student's journey with any other institution. Our focus is to enhance the filmmakers journey whichever stage of film making they are.
About Our Board
Shirikiana Gerima
Provides overall leadership and is responsible for program implementation, fiscal management oversight, fundraising, and compliance with grant requirements. Ensures that funded activities are delivered on schedule, within scope, and in alignment with the organization's mission. Leads community engagement efforts, cultivates funding and strategic partnerships, and represents the organization publicly. Reports regularly to the board on organizational performance, financial status, and progress toward mission-driven goals, ensuring that all activities advance the organization's long-term sustainability and public benefit.
Is the outward facing officer making sure community relationships are developed and maintained.
Facilities and Capital Projects CommitteePresident, Executive Dir.
Mulunesh Gerima, Esq.
Supports organizational leadership and assists with strategic planning, project oversight, and continuity of operations. Provides additional governance oversight and supports compliance monitoring for major initiatives and funded projects.
Facilities and Capital Projects Committee
Legal Counsel
TreasurerBehailu Zerihun
Provides financial oversight to ensure responsible use of grant and organizational funds. Reviews budgets, financial statements, and grant expenditures; monitors internal controls; and reports financial status to the board. Ensures compliance with financial reporting requirements and coordinates with accountants or auditors as needed.
Facilities and Capital Projects Committee
Vice-PresidentAleiaBrown, Ph.D
Supports organizational leadership and assists with strategic planning, project oversight, and continuity of operations. Provides additional governance oversight and supports compliance monitoring for major initiatives and funded projects. Archive Committee Chair – Dr. Brown brings her archivist skills to the Sankofa Film Institute Community Archive, training fellows and preserving SFI collections.
Board MemberYohance C. Maqubela
Ensures proper governance documentation and compliance bymaintaining accurate board records, meeting minutes, policies, andrequired filings. Supports transparency and accountability by documenting board approvals related to grants, budgets, and contracts.
Grants and Development Manager: Oversees all fundraising activities, including individual giving, grants, sponsorships, and donor relations.
SecretaryJordan Strudwick,
Esq
Brings over 25 years of nonprofit management and business administration experience to the board, with particular expertise in operational capacity building and fiscal oversight.
Prior experience includes serving as Executive Director and CEO of a Local Education Agency, managing a $10 million budget and over 75 employees, and serving as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer designing business systems including payroll, HR, and procurement.
Supports the board's strategic planning, governance, and public relations efforts, and brings a track record in fundraising and development that has secured over $4 million in annual private contributions.
Currently provides executive coaching and financial technical assistance, including audit readiness and long-term forecasting, to community-based nonprofit organizations.
[Committee assignment: TBD]
Past Workshops
“Around The Fire …”
A Film Workshop by Haile Gerima
Jan 12- Feb 22, 2025
Each and every Sankofa Film Institute is unique in its approach to teaching film as each storyteller is unique in his or her storytelling.
Sankofa Film Workshop
2024 - 2025
ARRAY Film Masterclass
2020
Luxor Film Festival
2014 - 2018