One Day. One Gift.
One Legacy.
Your Giving Tuesday gift empowers Black and BIPOC filmmakers, emerging creators, and the next generation of storytellers.
Our Impact at a Glance
26 Years
Celebrating Black excellence in film and television.
33 Filmmakers
Supported at the 2025 LightReel Film Festival.
100+ Youth
Engaged through our Reel Kids filmmaking program.
Thousands Reached
Every year through awards, festivals, and community programs.
Who We Are
The Foundation for the Augmentation of African Americans in Film (FAAAF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to uplifting Black and BIPOC storytellers across film, television, and emerging media. Through our annual awards, festivals, youth programs, and creative initiatives, we create opportunities for talent, visibility, and long-term career growth.
We believe in the power of storytelling to reflect truth, shape culture, and inspire community. Our work celebrates excellence and invests in tomorrow's creators. The stories we support today help shape the voices and visions of the future.
Our Core Principles
Representation: Amplifying underrepresented voices in film and media
Opportunity: Providing access, training, and visibility for emerging creators
Celebration: Honoring Black and BIPOC excellence through our awards and festivals
Inclusion: Creating safe and equitable spaces for storytellers of all backgrounds
Community: Building a network of artists, youth, and audiences committed to culture and change
What We Do
Black Reel Awards
We celebrate outstanding achievements in film by Black artists and creators. For more than 26 years, the Black Reel Awards have honored excellence in acting, directing, writing, and behind-the-scenes craft.
LightReel Film Festival
Our annual festival showcases independent Black cinema and emerging voices from around the world. LightReel brings filmmakers, audiences, and industry leaders together for screenings, panels, and live events.
Youth and Education
Reel Kids and the Producers Institute give young people and aspiring filmmakers hands-on training, mentorship, and opportunities to explore storytelling and media creation.
Community and Partnerships
We create collaborative opportunities for artists, students, cultural groups, and local organizations. Our partnerships expand access, build visibility, and strengthen the creative ecosystem.
Upcoming Events
December
**Nominations Announcement for the 26th Annual Black Reel Awards**
The official nominations for the 26th Annual Black Reel Awards will be announced December 18, 2026. Discover the films, performances, and creative achievements being recognized this season.
February
**Black Reel Awards: 26th Anniversary Gala**
A night that honors the best in Black film with special guests, tributes, and award presentations.
June
**7th Annual LightReel Film Festival**
Four days of screenings, conversations, youth programming, and signature events in Washington, DC.
Stories From Our Community
The impact of FAAAF lives in the experiences of the filmmakers, youth, and artists who take part in our programs.
“Anytime someone takes the time to acknowledge your work as being something outstanding or special, that’s a wonderful thing.”
– Sheryl Lee Ralph, Black Reel Award Honoree
“Learning to use a camera and edit a film made me realize I want to work in movies one day.”
– Kendall, Age 15, Reel Kids Participant
“The LightReel Film Festival was a fantastic experience and an excellent start to our new film's festival journey.”
– Shawn Holmes, 2025 LightReel Filmmaker
“It is a TREMENDOUS HONOR to be nominated by The Black Reel Awards.”
– Reggie Rock Bythewood, Black Reel Awards Honoree
Stay Connected
Join our mailing list to receive updates on the Black Reel Awards, the LightReel Film Festival, youth opportunities, and ways to support Black and BIPOC storytellers.