EXCLUSIVE: The Writer’s Colony is an LA-Based three month screenwriting residency where writers have the chance to develop an original script that showcases their writing voice and vision. Throughout the residency they workshop their scripts and have access to network with a variety of entertainment professionals at all levels to prepare them to launch into the industry. The residency is an opportunity for underrepresented writers, with cohorts made up of those who have not been on staff with a studio or been in a scripted television’s writers room. The goal of the colony is to amplify the voices of those who have not yet had the chance to bring their ideas to the page.
The spring cohort will include Duran Jones, who is building his independent film slate under his company BLK MGC Content as a writer, producer and director. Dorado Quick, whose storytelling style has received international recognition from Cannes Lions, Clio, Pencil awards, and more. Shahari Moore, who currently serves as Historian Emeritus for the Guy Hanks and Marvin Miller Screenwriting Program at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts, and a Professor of Africana Studies at Kennedy King College, one of the City Colleges of Chicago. Sunny Dae, an event producer, storyteller, and interior design enthusiast.
“The impact of the Writer’s Colony is something I am very proud of and I’m delighted to continue the colony’s commitment to nurturing underrepresented emerging writers, and providing them with exposure, access, and the tools they need to continue on their journeys.”
The Writer’s Colony has appointed Natalie Guerrero to lead the team as Artistic Director. Guerrero is a writer and producer based in Los Angeles, California. Her debut novel, My Train Leaves At Three, will be published by One World (PRH) in 2025. Over the past decade, she’s built an excellent reputation in both the publishing and entertainment industry, holding positions at corporations such as HarperCollins, WME, and MACRO/M88 before pivoting to writing full-time. Guerrero also was a part of Brock Akil’s Artist in Residence Program in May 2023.
“I am so honored to have the privilege of supporting these upcoming artists with the opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive environment conducive to creativity and artistic development” added Guerrero.
Previous Writers Colony cohorts included Aissa Rose Gueye, Cliff L. Powell, Aquilia “Q” Mikel, and Ernest Crosby in the Fall 2023 Cohort. The most recent Winter 2024 included James Ward III, Emma Michalak, Amber Jay, and Luis Santos.
The post Mara Brock Akil’s Writers’ Colony Announces Cohorts For Spring Residency; Natalie Guerrero Appointed Artistic Director Of The Writers Colony appeared first on Deadline.
