Shameka Sawyer began the 5 Shorts Project in 2014 to address the lack of accessible opportunities for aspiring filmmakers in Philadelphia.
“I wanted to remove barriers to entry in filmmaking,” Sawyer shares with BrownStyle Magazine exclusively shortly after celebrating her company’s 10th anniversary. “I saw talented people with incredible stories who needed guidance, resources, and support to get started. The 5 Shorts Project is all about accessibility and empowerment. We provide first-time filmmakers with the resources, mentorship, and platform to bring their ideas to life.”
Participants in the 5 Shorts Project receive a comprehensive crash course in filmmaking, which includes guidance in scriptwriting, directing, shooting, and editing.
They also get access to professional equipment, hands-on training, and one-on-one mentorship from experienced filmmakers. “We teach them how to pitch their work, market themselves, and build professional networks that will serve them long after the program ends,” she explains.
Challenges In The Film Industry For BIPOC Creators
As a producer, Sawyer has seen firsthand the barriers BIPOC experience when trying to break into the industry. This includes systemic barriers, such as limited access to funding, equipment, and industry networks. Lack of mentorship is also a common problem.
“Many talented creators are left on the margins because their stories don’t fit into mainstream expectations or because they lack the support to fully realize their vision,” she cautions. “There’s a persistent lack of representation and mentorship within the film industry, making it difficult to find pathways to success.”
To help address these challenges head-on, the company provides members free access to equipment, professional guidance, and opportunities to showcase their work in red-carpet events.
“Our program levels the playing field by eliminating financial barriers and connecting filmmakers with industry mentors. We also offer workshops on storytelling, technical production, and marketing, giving participants the skills to navigate the industry with confidence,” she shares.
Why We Should Advocate For Storytelling
The award-winning producer and creative entrepreneur considers herself an advocate for storytelling. After losing her brother to gun violence, Sawyer says she was motivated to push forward his legacy and use storytelling as a tool for healing and change.
“Storytelling is a powerful way for the BIPOC community to reclaim narratives, celebrate resilience, and inspire future generations,” the award-winning filmmaker explains. “It allows us to shine a light on our shared experiences, history, and culture in ways that challenge stereotypes and foster understanding. Our stories are not just about survival, but about joy, creativity, and innovation. They are a way to preserve our truths, build bridges, and spark necessary conversations.”
As someone who believes in community, it was important to create a safe space for collaboration and growth. To do so, the 5 Shorts Project hosts networking events, panel discussions, and film premieres that bring together alumni, industry professionals, and community members.
“Collaboration is at the heart of what we do. Filmmakers in our program work together, share ideas, and often become each other’s crew members,” Sawyer notes. “This creates a lasting support system where participants can continue to learn and grow long after their films are completed.”
5 Shorts Project is currently looking to expand its programs to include more youth-focused initiatives, like the Bout Mine I Matter program, which teaches teens to share their experiences through filmmaking. “We’re also planning a social justice film festival to amplify stories that drive change,” she tells us.
SunKissed Group: A Safe Space For Multicultural Creators To Grow
Sawyer is also the owner of SunKissed Group, a growing organization designed to help creators find the tools, resources, and collaborations they need to elevate their brands.
“SunKissed Group is all about empowering multicultural women creators to transform their passion into impact,” the founder explains. The brand offers workshops, networking events, and one-on-one coaching to help creators elevate their storytelling, master social media, and position themselves for success.
“My goal is to create a supportive community where women can thrive creatively and professionally,” she adds, before teasing an upcoming podcast that will bring the project full circle.
“Both organizations are grounded in the mission to uplift voices and make an impact, and I’m excited for what’s ahead,” she shares enthusiastically.
SunKissed Group x BrownStyle Magazine
BrownStyle Magazine was the proud media sponsor of Wine & Create in April, and we saw firsthand the networking and connections being made during the event.
“At SunKissed Group, we are big on building a sisterhood! We are a safe space to network, laugh, and learn,” Sawyer shared while speaking to the audience. “Our goal is to bring together more people to collaborate.”
While enjoying a fun networking game during the event, we had the pleasure of meeting Steph The Great, a fun-spirited creative director who also spoke on the panel about the importance of being more consistent as creators. “There are times when you have to push past your fear. I suggest getting on the camera in a way that feels comfortable and authentic to you,” she notes, sharing that a great alternative if you feel uncomfortable speaking directly to the camera is voiceovers.
We were also introduced to the Wellness Jawn, a Philly creator who spoke on the panel about her experience jumping into the social media world. “I know it can be difficult, but honestly, you’ve just got to do it! Set up your camera in your room and start practicing. It just takes building your confidence and putting yourself out there.”
While networking, we learned about the amazing projects filmmaker/author Karamell Jones and content creator Asia Santos were working on. We also met the lovely Aqueelah Brown, the Chief Executive Director of Know Your Worth Girls, Inc. — a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that acts as a haven for Philadelphia girls to enjoy thoughtful programming, events, and opportunities that encourage personal growth and success. The organization promotes and offers skill development, wellness, and support.
To learn more about the 5 Shorts Project and SunKissed Group, be sure to visit them on Instagram!
Editor’s Note: This story has been edited and condensed for clarity.
By BrownStyle Magazine in Special Editions
72 pages, published 1/17/2025
