Athena Film Festival Documentary Pitch Program

Leilah, AX and the Athena Film Festival Documentary Pitch Program participants and supporters

We had an incredible time at the Athena Film Festival Documentary Pitch Program at Barnard College, where Rubbish: The Queer Kingdom of Leilah Babirye was one of four film projects selected for this intensive. The program involved 1:1 calls, group workshops and some focused sessions around loglines, lead images and pitch narrative.

I received mentorship from Peabody Award-winning filmmaker/teacher/Co-Founder of Chicken & Egg Picture, Judith Helfand, along with cohort support from fellow filmmakers Zippy Kimundu and Heather Courtney (Widow Champion); Anna Clare Spelman and Bridgette Cyr (Meant to Be Maddie); and Emily Harrold and Robin Hessman (Sister Senators).

Leilah and I went on stage to pitch the program to industry representatives, with Leilah sharing a little more about what the film means for her. We then received live feedback on stage, followed by some really energizing conversations afterward during the reception. It was truly an honor and blessing to be a part of the program.

We’re grateful to the Athena Film Festival team, especially Melissa Silverstein and Kristin Molloy. This program is underwritten by Secret Sauce Media, whose founder, Julie Parker Benello, is a Barnard alum.