Tyler Perry is looking to give back to the next generation of filmmakers through a new program. Deadline reports that the producer is establishing the Dream Collective, a program created to help develop the next generation of filmmakers from marginalized communities.
The mogul‘s program will focus on how to make a short film and “give filmmakers unprecedented access to industry experts, hands-on training and tailored support, empowering them to tell their stories and build toward career sustainability.”
The 55-year-old creative told the outlet that applications for Dream Collective will open on April 17, and he hopes that the next generation can take what he learned in the industry and work toward their dreams.
“For a long time, it’s been on my heart to create a program where I could take what I’ve learned in this business and share it with others. That’s why today, I’m honored and excited to introduce the Tyler Perry Studios Dream Collective,” Perry said in an official statement to the outlet.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for up-and-coming directors to learn about the craft and business of filmmaking from professionals at the top of their game. In a word, this is about access. Breaking into the industry can be tough–believe me. When I started making movies twenty years ago, even though my stage plays were selling out, nobody in Hollywood knew my name or gave me a shot. The Tyler Perry Studios Dream Collective is my dream of opening the door for the next generation of artists.”
Tyler Perry, winner of the Icon Award, poses at the Winner’s Walk during The Critics Choice Association’s 7th Annual Celebration of Black Cinema & Television at Fairmont Century Plaza on December 09, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.
Perry also named Dawn Hudson as the head of Tyler Perry Dream Collective. Hudson, who previously worked as CEO of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, offered a few words about the new endeavor and explained that their decision to be involved with the new program was motivated by a desire to erase some of the barriers of entry into the film industry. And it wasn’t lost on her that diversity has to be the driving force behind their efforts during a time of DEI erasure.
“After I left the Academy [of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences], Tyler and I had a conversation about how the film industry is getting more and more difficult to enter and navigate,” said Hudson. “It is of vital importance to have a diversity of voices in cinema and television. This makes the world a more compassionate and informed place to live in. You can’t create without community. And you damn sure can’t make films.”
Nekisa Cooper has been tapped to lead the programs’ Design & Production arm and stated that the collective’s goal is to truly “amplify a multiplicity of voices in the industry and give emerging filmmakers the tools to tell their stories and design sustainable careers.”
People looking to join the collective are asked to enter submissions from April- May 1. 1000 submissions will be selected, with 100 of those submissions being tapped as preliminary finalists and will be notified later in May. Those finalists will then participate in “virtual sessions” where they will receive education and inspiration and forge new connections to foster community. They will then be able to submit their own short film scripts and other materials with 10 winners being announced in July.
Tyler Perry attends Tyler Perry Studios grand opening gala at Tyler Perry Studios on October 05, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia.
“The 10 Winners then begin an immersive, 10-day hands-on training workshop which includes Short Film prep at Tyler Perry Studios in July/August 2025. Participants will have the opportunity to experiment with their script scenes, focus on collaboration with department heads, work with actors, and develop their directing skills in the context of the world-class Tyler Perry Studios. The 10 Winners will be invited to pitch their Short Film vision and articulate their plans to bring their stories to life. After evaluation of the pitches, 5 Grand Prize Winners will be selected and notified in August,” the directions read.
“Five Grand Prize Winners will be announced in August. Grand Prize Winners will each be awarded $30,000 from Tyler Perry Studios to make their Short Film this Fall in the greater Atlanta area. This will include access to local below-the-line crew, the studio’s production resources and mentorship from Tyler Perry Studios and industry professionals.”
More from VIBE.com
Sign up for Vibe’s Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
