In partnership with the Geffen Playhouse, PAFF invites you to the West Coast premiere of Table 17—a laugh-out-loud Black comedy that promises an unforgettable night at the theatre. Inspired by Broadway’s Black Out Nights, this special performance welcomes Black audiences and community partners to celebrate culture, comedy, and connection together.

100% of single ticket proceeds will directly benefit PAFF. And because a PAFF night at the theatre isn’t complete without a celebration—we’re keeping the energy going with an after-party featuring DJ Wolvie, desserts, and drinks.

Written By: Douglas Lyons
Directed By: Zhailon Levingston
Produced in Association with: Mark Cortale
Featuring: Gail Bean, Biko Eisen-Martin & Michael Rishawn

Schedule of Events

Friday, November 21, 2025

8:00 PM – Performance of Table 17

9:45 PM – After Party with Desserts & Drinks, featuring DJ Wolvie

The post Join PAFF and the GEFFEN Playhouse for TABLE 17 Nov. 21 first appeared on Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF).

To celebrate the return of the PAFF Artfest to Baldwin Hills Crenshaw, we’re showing a little extra love to our artists.

The first 10 artists who complete their Artfest application and use the code PAFFART10 will have their application fee waived. That’s right—no application fee at all.

But it gets better. Those 10 artists will also receive a $50 discount on their booth fee, bringing the total to just $845. Once you apply, you’ll still have 7 days to submit your booth fee payment and lock in your spot.

This offer is only valid during the regular submission period, which ends July 21, 2025. And once 10 people use the code, it automatically shuts down—so if you’re planning to apply, move fast.

This is your moment.

Apply now. Use code: PAFFART10. Save your spot.

See you at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw this August.

August 21–24, 2025
Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza

The post First 10 Artists Get Their Artfest Application Fee Waived — Here’s How first appeared on Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF).

The Pan African Film & Arts Festival is proud to announce the return of our beloved Artfest to its home at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw. From August 21–24, 2025, we’re bringing the marketplace back to the heart of South Los Angeles—where culture, community, and creativity converge.

For over three decades, PAFF has created space for Black and Pan-African artists to showcase their work to thousands of art lovers, collectors, and supporters. This year, we’re reclaiming that legacy and returning to the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, a historic location that has long served as a cultural hub for our community.

The 2025 Artfest will feature over 100 artists from across the African diaspora, offering everything from fine art, sculpture, handmade jewelry, wearable fashion, and ceramics to African textiles, home decor, collectibles, and more. It’s a curated experience that centers Black artists, honors our heritage, and uplifts our stories—whether they’re told through brushstrokes, beadwork, or bold design.

More than just a marketplace, the Artfest is a gathering. A celebration of our history, our resilience, and our imagination. It’s where people come not only to buy art, but to connect with the creators behind it. It’s where culture lives, breathes, and grows.

And best of all—it’s free and open to the public.

Mark your calendars. Spread the word. The PAFF Artfest is coming home.

August 21–24, 2025
Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza

The post The PAFF ArtFEST Returns to Baldwin Hills Crenshaw August 21–24, 2025 first appeared on Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF).

Lights, camera, legacy.

The Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) is now accepting submissions for its 34th annual event, taking place February 9–16, 2026, in Los Angeles, California! As the largest and most prestigious Black film festival in the United States, PAFF is where storytellers from across the African diaspora come to premiere their work, connect with industry insiders, and be part of a powerful movement that celebrates Black voices, visions, and creativity.

We’re looking for bold, brilliant, and boundary-pushing films from filmmakers of African descent and those that explore the Pan African experience. All genres and formats are welcome—features, shorts, docs, animation, experimental, narratives, and everything in between.

Whether you’re an emerging filmmaker or an established director, this is your moment.

Important Dates:

Festival Dates: February 9–16, 2026

Submission Deadline:

• Early May 31, 2025
• Regular July 31, 2025
• Late August 31, 2025
• Extended September 30, 2025 (Features only)

Why Submit to PAFF?

• Your film screened in front of one of the most diverse, engaged, and influential audiences in the country
• Networking opportunities with distributors, producers, artists, and industry leaders
• Eligibility for juried awards and audience prizes
• A place in history alongside some of the most important Black films and filmmakers of our time

Let your work be seen. Let your story be heard.

Submit now and be part of something bigger.

The post CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: PAFF 2026 is Now Accepting Entries! first appeared on Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF).

As the curtains close on PAFF 2025, we want to take a moment to shine a spotlight on the true stars of this festival—our volunteers. You are the heartbeat of PAFF, the engine that keeps this incredible celebration of Black storytelling, art, and culture running smoothly. Without your time, dedication, and unshakable energy, none of this would be possible.

From managing lines and assisting guests to ensuring our screenings and panels ran without a hitch, you showed up and showed out in ways that exceeded expectations. You kept the vibes high, the logistics tight, and the community spirit alive. You did it all—with grace, patience, and a commitment that did not go unnoticed.

This year, PAFF was more than just a festival–it was a movement. A space where voices were amplified, stories were honored, and our collective power as artists, activists, and visionaries was felt. And YOU made that happen.

So whether you spent your days coordinating chaos behind the scenes or greeting guests with a warm smile, we see you. We appreciate you. And we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

PAFF is not just an event—it’s a family. And because of you, that family keeps growing stronger every year. Until next time, keep that same energy, and know that your contributions are forever a part of this festival’s legacy.

With gratitude,
The PAFF Team

The post The Heartbeat of PAFF: A Thank You to Our Volunteers first appeared on Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF).

PAFF wrapped up its 2025 season with a grand celebration of Black excellence in film and television, honoring actor Tramell Tillman with its esteemed “Rising Star Award.” Presented at the PAFF Filmmaker Awards Brunch—hosted by Apple TV+ at Palm Sophia in Culver City, CA—this recognition marks Tillman as one of Hollywood’s most compelling and dynamic emerging talents.

Best known for his chilling and enigmatic portrayal of Milchick in Apple TV+’s hit series Severance, Tillman has captivated audiences with his nuanced performances. As the show enters its highly anticipated second season, airing new episodes every Friday, Tillman continues to establish himself as a formidable presence in the industry. His work embodies the essence of PAFF’s Rising Star Award—talent, authenticity, and a fearless commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.

Presented by actress, producer, and beloved Hollywood icon Yvette Nicole Brown, the award underscores Tillman’s trajectory toward superstardom. “PAFF has long been a champion of artists who dare to tell bold, unfiltered stories, and Tramell is the embodiment of that mission,” said Brown. “His work is captivating, thought-provoking, and undeniably magnetic.”

Oduduwa Olatunji, Executive Director of PAFF, echoed this sentiment: “We are thrilled to celebrate Tramell Tillman, whose performance in Severance has made him one of the most exciting talents to watch. As PAFF continues its mission to uplift and amplify Black creatives, we are proud to recognize artists like Tramell, who are redefining the industry.”

A highlight of PAFF’s annual festivities, the Filmmaker Awards Brunch serves as the festival’s grand finale, unveiling winners across various jury and audience-selected categories. As an Academy Award-qualifying festival, PAFF continues to be a critical platform for Black filmmakers, ensuring that global stories from the African diaspora are amplified and celebrated on the world stage.

A Legacy of Excellence

Beyond the accolades and applause, the PAFF Filmmaker Awards are steeped in cultural significance. Each honoree receives a handcrafted ceremonial staff, a masterpiece designed by renowned Ghanaian artist Allohn Agbenya. Crafted from rich ebony wood sourced from Togo and adorned with stainless silver, the staff is more than an award—it is a symbol of heritage, achievement, and the enduring power of storytelling in the African tradition.

With another groundbreaking festival in the books, PAFF remains a beacon for Black creatives, fostering a space where voices are heard, artistry is celebrated, and history is made. And with talents like Tramell Tillman leading the charge, the future of Black storytelling has never looked brighter.

The post Tramell Tillman Receives PAFF’s Rising Star Award at the 2025 Filmmaker Awards Brunch first appeared on Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF).

The Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF), the largest Black film festival in the United States, proudly announces the winners of its 2025 competition. This year’s festival, which ran from February 4 to February 17, showcased a dynamic lineup of films from across the African diaspora, amplifying powerful storytelling, diverse voices, and cultural narratives that redefine the cinematic landscape. The awards were handed out at PAFF’s Filmmaker Awards Brunch presented by Apple TV+ in Culver City, CA at Palm Sophia on Mon., Feb. 17.

“Each year, PAFF continues to serve as a global stage for Black creatives, and 2025 was no exception,” said Oduduwa Olatunji, PAFF Executive Director. “The winning films this year not only pushed artistic boundaries but also reflected the richness and depth of Black storytelling. We are honored to celebrate these visionary filmmakers and their extraordinary work.”

The PAFF Filmmaker Awards Brunch serves as the grand finale to the festival, celebrating the best in global Black cinema. The event unveiled the winners of PAFF’s jury and audience-selected films, alongside the festival’s Festival and Programmers’ Awards, recognizing industry pioneers and emerging voices who are shaping the future of film.

PAFF is an Oscars qualifying film festival for the Academy Awards in the categories of: Best Short Narrative Film Award, Best Short Documentary Award, and Best Animated Short.

About the Ceremony

The festival’s awards ceremony was hosted by acclaimed actress Essence Atkins, adding a vibrant and engaging presence to the celebration of Black excellence in cinema.

This year’s PAFF Filmmaker Awards Brunch was further elevated by a dynamic lineup of celebrity presenters who brought star power and charisma to the stage. Kent Faulcon (For Better or Worse, Selma), Kiki Haynes (All the Queens Men), Malika Blessings (Wicked City), and Nadine Ellis (Let’s Stay Together, One Kind of People) lent their talents to honor the exceptional filmmakers whose work captivated audiences and pushed the boundaries of Black storytelling. Their presence underscored PAFF’s commitment to celebrating both established and emerging voices in the industry, making the awards brunch an unforgettable tribute to cinematic excellence.

Adding to the prestige of the PAFF Filmmaker Awards Brunch, Culver City Mayor Dan O’Brien, Vice Mayor Freddy Puza, and Councilmember Bubba Fish were in attendance, underscoring the city’s commitment to supporting Black art, culture, and storytelling. Their presence highlighted the vital role PAFF plays in the creative landscape of Culver City and beyond, reinforcing the festival’s impact as a cultural and cinematic institution that uplifts diverse voices and fosters community engagement.

About the Awards

A defining feature of the PAFF Filmmaker Awards is the prestigious ceremonial staff, designed by renowned Ghanaian artist Allohn Agbenya. Handcrafted from rich ebony wood sourced from Togo and adorned with stainless silver, each staff is a stunning work of art that embodies African craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Rooted in West African tradition, the presentation of a staff is a symbolic honor bestowed upon those who have achieved greatness in their field. By receiving this distinguished award, PAFF winners are not only celebrated for their artistic excellence but also inducted into a legacy of leadership and storytelling that spans generations.

2025 PAFF Jury Award Winners

Best Narrative Feature: Nawi: Dear Future Me (Kenya) – Directed by Vallentine Chelluget, Apuu Mourine, Kevin Schmutzler & Tobias Schmutzler

Best Documentary Feature: Legacy: The De-Colonized History of South Africa (South Africa) – Directed by Tara Moore

Best First Feature – Narrative: Color Book (US) – Directed by David Fortune

Best Short Documentary: Can’t Retire From This (US)–Directed by Melanie Page

Best Short Narrative: Advent (US) – Directed by Rachael Danae Bass

Audience Award Winners

Best Feature Narrative: Til Death…Do You (US)– Directed by Andra Fuller

Best Feature Documentary: Memories of Love Returned (Uganda/US)– Directed by Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine

Best Short Narrative: For Sale (US)– Directed by Nika King

Best Short Documentary: The Devil is Busy (US)  – Directed by Geeta Gandbhir & Christalyn Hampton

Programmers’ Award Winners

Short Narrative: Bela LX-404  (Brazil)  – Directed by Luiza Botelho

Short Documentary: Born in the Struggle  (US)  – Directed by Kamasi Hill

Feature Documentary: We Want the Funk  (US)  – Directed by Stanley Nelson

Feature Narrative: Young King  (US)  – Directed by Bryant Griffin

Ja’Net Dubois Festival Award

Short Documentary: The Thoughts of Our Ancestors  (Tanzania/Germany)  – Directed by Kokutekeleza Musebeni

Short Narrative: Run Like We  (UK)  – Directed by Rhys Aaron Lewis

Feature Documentary (Tie): Mount Mutombo  (UAE/US)  – Directed by Dina Khreino

and

Sountrack to a Coup d’Etat (Belgium/France/Netherlands) – Directed by John Grimonprez

Feature Narrative: The Fisherman  (Ghana)  – Directed by Zoey Martinson

Special Honors

PAFF proudly honored “Severance” actor Tramell Tillman with the Rising Star Award at today’s prestigious PAFF Filmmaker Awards Brunch, presented by Apple TV+. Recognized for his undeniable talent and magnetic on-screen presence, Tillman joins an esteemed list of past recipients who have shaped the industry with bold storytelling and authentic representation.

Presented by actress, producer, and Hollywood favorite Yvette Nicole Brown, the award celebrates an artist on the brink of superstardom—one whose work not only captivates but also challenges narratives and pushes boundaries. Tillman, known for his gripping performance in “Severance”, has continued to make waves in the industry, proving that he is a force to be reckoned with.

This year’s festival saw an incredible turnout of industry professionals, film enthusiasts, and cultural leaders, reaffirming PAFF’s role as a vital platform for Black storytelling. With over 150 films from 34 countries and in 19 languages, PAFF 2025 continued its tradition of celebrating the past, present, and future of Pan-African cinema.

PAFF, celebrating its rich legacy of amplifying Black voices in film, continues to be a premier platform for both emerging and established talent, fostering a space where stories from the African diaspora take center stage. The PAFF Filmmaker Awards Brunch remains one of the festival’s most anticipated events, bringing together industry leaders, creators, and changemakers to celebrate Black excellence in film and television.

The post PAFF Announces Winners of 2025 Film Festival at Awards Brunch Presented by Apple TV+ first appeared on Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF).

The Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) has always been more than just a film festival. It’s a movement. A gathering of Black creatives, visionaries, and game-changers who refuse to be confined by industry limits. And at the heart of this cultural revolution? The PAFF Institute—a powerhouse of knowledge, strategy, and unfiltered conversations you won’t find anywhere else.

If you’re serious about navigating the entertainment industry, whether you’re a filmmaker, actor, writer, music artist, or digital creator, this is where you need to be. We’re serving up insider secrets, unfiltered truths, and real opportunities to build, network, and elevate your career.

Why Should You Show Up?

Because no one’s handing out cheat codes. The PAFF Institute is where you get the real playbook from industry leaders who’ve done it, survived it, and are sharing exactly how. Whether you’re trying to get your indie film distributed, break into Hollywood, master social media, or dominate music streaming algorithms—we’ve got a panel for that.

And the best part? Thanks to our partnership with Stocker Street Creative–PAFF Institute is FREE. That’s right. You just need to RSVP and pull up.

Fireside Chat with Tichina Arnold

Join us for an exclusive Fireside Chat with the incomparable Tichina Arnold, as she steps into the director’s chair for her directorial debut on the hit CBS series, The Neighborhood. Best known for her electrifying performances, Tichina takes on a new creative challenge, bringing her unique perspective and passion to the director’s seat.

In this intimate conversation, she’ll share her journey behind the camera—what inspired her to direct, the lessons she’s learned, and the challenges and triumphs of leading an episode of a beloved sitcom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, industry insights, and an inside look at her evolution from actress to director.

Whether you’re a fan of The Neighborhood, an aspiring filmmaker, or just love Tichina Arnold’s work, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!

No Filter, No Apology: Black & Queer in Hollywood

Authenticity comes at a cost—but should it? This panel is diving deep into the experiences of Black queer creatives in Hollywood, the battles they face, and the wins they refuse to compromise on. If you’re tired of watered-down representation and ready for some real talk, this is the panel for you. Moderator Jasmyne Cannick

Reel Strategies: Marketing and Distribution Tactics for Indie Filmmakers

You made your film. Now what? Get the inside scoop on how to actually get your project seen, sold, and streamed.

Building Our Production Ecosystem: The State of Black Independent Film

The industry isn’t built for us—so we build our own. This discussion unpacks the realities of Black indie filmmaking and how we create sustainable success outside of Hollywood’s traditional gatekeepers. Panelist: Samir Hernandez, Omar Benson Miller, Terry Miller, Tyson Chandler, Michael Hammon

Storytellers Pushing Black Commonality to the Forefront

These storytellers will share their poignant perspectives, provide invaluable words of wisdom, and share their thoughts on the state of Hollywood today. They are breaking down barriers and pushing our commonality to the forefront. Moderator: Jasmine Simpkins. Panelists: Malcolm Washington, Ken Whittingham, Rza, Kelvin Harrison Jr.

Building The Brand: Acting, Fitness & Producing for Longevity in Hollywood

Success in the entertainment industry requires more than talent. This panel discusses how actors, fitness professionals, and producers stay relevant, healthy, and in control of their careers. Moderator: Kareem Grimes (All American). Panelists: Corey Calliet, Sean Riggs, Mike Merrill, Patrick Cage.

Behind The Music: Mastering Algorithms for Stream + Sync Success

Think talent alone will get your music heard? Think again. Learn how to hack the algorithms and get your music placed where it belongs—in playlists, on screens, and in the ears of the right people. Moderator: SheRise Ford, The Six Foot Publicist. Panelists: Aaron Hunter (UnitedMasters), Archie Davis (DefJam), Natalie Prospere (Disney), Matt Barnes 

Frame to Frame: Black Editors

Join The Motion Picture Editors Guild for a deep dive into how Black editors are influencing the storytelling process. From innovative editing techniques to championing diverse perspectives, this panel will discuss the pivotal role of Black editors in crafting films and TV shows that resonate with audiences. Moderator: Lillian Benson. Presented by: African American Steering Committee of the Motion Picture Editors Guild.

Diverse Representation: How to Find and Keep the Right Team

The right team isn’t just about representation—it’s about elevation. From entertainment attorneys to agents, managers, and publicists, this panel will explore how strategic representation helps creatives navigate the industry, protect their interests, and achieve their goals.

Everything in Entertainment: The Journey of Black Women in Hollywood

Trace the career paths of these accomplished actresses and dive into the impact these women are making both on and off camera, amplifying authentic stories and experiences. Moderator: J’Tasha St. Cyr (Miss Everything) Panelists: Brandee Evans (P Valley), Kiki Haynes (All The Kings Men), Kearia Schroeder (Nothing Even Matters), Tiffany M. Abney (Mea Culpa), Renelle Nicole (Chicago Med)

Where & When?

The Culver Theater

February 15-17, 2025 (Check the full schedule here)

Show Up & Show Out

The PAFF Institute isn’t just about panels—it’s about power moves. It’s where you connect, where you level up, and where you take your craft from idea to industry.

This isn’t a time to sit on the sidelines. RSVP now, pull up, and claim your seat at the table.

The post The PAFF Institute: Where Culture, Creativity & Industry Collide first appeared on Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF).

The Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) is closing out its 33rd annual celebration with a show-stopping finale: the highly anticipated Filmmaker Awards Brunch, presented by Apple TV+. And this year, the festival is shining a well-deserved spotlight on Tramell Tillman (“Severance”) as he receives the coveted “Star on the Rise” Award.

Set for Monday, February 17, at 11 a.m. at the elegant Palm Sophia in Culver City, the invite-only event will be a toast to the best in global Black cinema. From unveiling this year’s jury and audience-selected winners to recognizing industry game-changers, the brunch is the festival’s grand finale—a celebration of the visionaries shaping the future of film.

And at the center of it all? Tramell Tillman, the undeniable talent who has been keeping audiences on the edge of their seats with his riveting performance as Milchick in Apple TV+’s psychological thriller “Severance.” With the series now in its second season and new episodes dropping every Friday, Tillman’s nuanced, haunting portrayal has solidified him as one of Hollywood’s brightest rising stars.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Tramell Tillman, whose performance in Apple’s Severance has made him one of the most exciting talents to watch,” said Oduduwa Olatunji, PAFF Executive Director. “As PAFF continues its mission to uplift and amplify Black creatives, we are proud to recognize artists like Tramell, who are redefining the industry.”

Attended by an exclusive mix of industry insiders, filmmakers, and festival participants, the PAFF Filmmaker Awards Brunch is more than just a wrap-up event—it’s a moment to honor cinematic excellence and the future of Black storytelling. And with Apple TV+ on board as the presenting sponsor, this year’s edition is set to be a celebration worthy of Hollywood’s next big star.

The post PAFF Awards Brunch, Presented by Apple TV+, to Honor “Severance” Star Tramell Tillman with “Star on the Rise” Award first appeared on Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF).

Some legacies can’t be measured by championships or statistics.

On Tuesday, February 11, at 8:55 PM, the Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) proudly presents a Spotlight Screening of Mount Mutombo at The Culver Theater—a powerful documentary chronicling the extraordinary life and impact of NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo.

From his humble beginnings in the Democratic Republic of Congo to his dominance on the basketball court, the film dives deep into the story of a man whose legacy extends far beyond sports. With rare interviews featuring Allen Iverson, Adam Silver, Alonzo Mourning, Patrick Ewing, Tracy McGrady, Hakeem Olajuwon, Masai Ujiri, Larry Brown, and more, Mount Mutombo captures the towering presence and influence of one of basketball’s greatest defenders—not just in the game, but in the world.

Beyond his NBA career, Mutombo has dedicated his life to philanthropy and humanitarian efforts, building hospitals, empowering communities, and becoming a global ambassador for change. His story is one of resilience, generosity, and the belief that true greatness comes from lifting others up.

Be There for This Unforgettable Screening

The Culver Theater

Tuesday, February 11

8:55 PM

This isn’t just a film about basketball. It’s a story about heart, impact, and the kind of legacy that lasts far beyond the final buzzer.

Tickets available now

The post PAFF Spotlight Screening: Mount Mutombo Brings the Inspiring Legacy of an NBA Giant to The Culver Theater first appeared on Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF).