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MARABOU STORYTELLERS
many roots... one tree
Marabou Storytellers is a 501c non-profit organization empowering Young Adults (18y/o - 25y/o) from the biracial, multi-ethnic, BIPOC community with an introductory screenwriting program taught by industry professionals.
Too often, social categorizations of people with overlapping cultural ancestry, limit and assign individuals their place within intersectional groups. Societal and familial expectations can also present the need to "choose a side" or "code switch" which dilutes you, and the story of you. MBST educates YOUNG ADULT's within these intersectional communities with introductory screenwriting and storytelling techniques which promote self agency to create a story from your unique P.O.V. and activate yourself as a member of this ever growing community.
MBST promotes pride in YOUNG ADULTS with diverse lineage and supports your choice of cultural identity. We encourage you to represent any or all the cultures which lead to the collaboration known as you. Diversity is a strength. The question "What Are You?" shouldn't be a backhanded compliment/accusation. We make it an invitation to connection.
Our Screenwriting Workshops are held at the Theater Of Arts Conservancy (Hollywood, CA.) Selected screenplays will be considered for production and entered into the Oscar qualifier HollyShorts Film festival's annual festival.
"what are you?"
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#92-0832171
MARABOU STORYTELLERS
many roots... one tree
WHY...
The importance of self esteem and self acceptance play a large role in the development of positive pier to pier relationships in Young Adults. Research shows that positive self image and confidence is paramount in order to thrive in personal relationships, work relationships, social interaction and leadership roles within society at large as well as within local communities. To that end, changes in industry tropes are overdue and necessary. Positive Mental health, sustainable emotional growth and a seat at the industry table are the byproducts of writing authentic representations of ourselves on screens large and small.
The benefits of learning how to write versions of your own personal stories within a group of piers are many. The MBST screenwriting program fosters: self expression, community building skills, personal agency, self esteem and leadership skills. We empower you, the activated community of Y.A.'s in and around Los Angeles to share, learn, create, support and inspire- YOURSELVES.
Throughout the workshop, as a participant you will share your unique experiences as a multi-cultural, bi-racial, BIPOC y.a. and learn how to find your voice as a storyteller and write your shorts screenplay with depth, and multi- cultural richness. By embracing your diverse perspectives and celebrating your ethnic and cultural intersectionality, you gain the confidence to navigate with self respect and make your choices heard as powerful storytellers.
Congratulations to all the future multi-ethnic Y.A. screenwriters!
"Our origins and upbringing are beyond our control. And the combination of seeds we sprout from and where our roots are nourished, is not determined by us. No one can tell us how to embrace, honor and represent our roots and family trees. We as INDIVIDUALS have that powerful gift." ... US
make a 100% tax deductible donation >
EIN #92-0832171
MARABOU STORYTELLERS
many roots... one tree
what's your story?
If you are a biracial, multi-ethnic, BIPOC Young Adult (18y/o - 25y/o) with a powerful, redemptive story to tell and would like to be considered for our program or an industry professional within the activated community who would like to donate your time and energy please don't wait. Get involved below.
If you are a parents who wants to engage in our "intervention therapy" conversation forums or help support our efforts to empower young adults to express themselves by learning shortfilm screenwriting and or make a tax-deductible charitable donation, please don't wait.
Get involved below.
make a 100% tax deductible donation >
EIN #92-0832171
ACT 1
BACKSTORY- Participants meet in a safe and open forum to discuss where the commonalities of your diverse experiences as MARABOU people INTERSECT. And rediscover what strengths lay in your diverse ethnic and cultural roots.
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The pros and cons of intersectionality.
You choose an episode from your own unique and authentic backstory.
Collaborations are welcomed. It's your choice.
ACT 2
MULTI-CULTURAL/ETHNICITY- is the shared theme all screenwriters write about. Here, you revisit and confirm the genre, sub genre and archetypes of your story.
Recognizing tropes and how to break them vie nuanced archetypes. Dedicate your story to the target audience you want to engage/inspire.
You'll be taught basic- three act structure and build an outline.
Then you will draft your 15-20 page short screenplay.
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ACT 3
The final weeks of class we will review students work and offer re-write notes from instructors and fellow students.
Complete and polishing your final drafts. With the focus rededicated to MARABOU P.O.V. 's.
Selected finished scripts will be considered for production and submission to the HollyShorts Film Festival.
MARABOU STORYTELLERS
many roots... one tree
Marabou Storytellers Treasurer Tav'ia Wolley With over 20 years of experience working in the nonprofit world (social services and working with people of color), As a Policy Consultant at Tavia Iles Communications, I use my nonprofit and communication skills to advocate for community research and education. I have a Biomedical Research Certification from CITI Program and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from California State University, Northridge. I have over 15 years of experience in policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, and strategic communication.
Chepren Rasika- 30 year industry professional Director/Producer
Marabou Storytellers President-Dumont is the co-Founder/Co-Directorof the Oscar-Qualifying HollyShorts FilmFestival co-Founder of the MammothFilm Festival. As Managing Partner atAlta Global Media, he spearheads mediarelations, publicity and strategic marketingcommunications for industry clients.altaglobalmedia.nethollyshorts.comhttps://pro.imdb.com/name/nm3430919/
Marabou Storytellers Director L. Philippe Casseus- 30 year industry professional Writer/Director/producer, day one contributor, festival judge and submissions judge for Oscar Award qualifier HollyShorts Film Festival.
make a 100% tax deductible donation >
EIN #92-0832171
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