Artist Bio
Overview
The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is an annual event dedicated to empowering Black talent and showcasing film and television content by and about people of African descent. Believing that diverse artists deserve the same opportunities as their mainstream counterparts, ABFF Founder Jeff Friday conceived the festival in 1997 to strengthen the Black entertainment community through resource sharing, education, and artistic collaboration.
As the most prestigious festival of its kind, ABFF attracts a global community of Black film and television enthusiasts. Featuring a dynamic mix of film screenings, panel discussions, master classes, and networking opportunities, the festival provides a vital platform for both emerging and established talent to connect, showcase their work, and engage in meaningful industry dialogue. Held annually in June, the five-day event in Miami Beach draws over 7,000 attendees from around the world, amplifying Black voices in Hollywood and beyond.
The festival’s origins trace back to a pivotal moment in January 1997 when Friday, motivated by the lack of diversity he noticed while attending a major industry film festival, asked himself three critical questions: Were Black and Brown filmmakers feeling unwelcome at industry festivals? Could a platform focused on content created by and about people of African descent succeed? And if such a platform were created, would people attend? Without clear answers, Friday took a leap of faith, leaving his role as president of a major advertising agency’s film division to dedicate himself to building the American Black Film Festival.
For nearly three decades, ABFF has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. It has served as a springboard for countless actors, writers, and directors—many of whom were previously unknown—helping to reshape the narratives of film and television. The festival’s dedication to inclusivity and fostering new talent has cemented its legacy, with its significance recognized by the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, which has preserved ABFF’s photographs and archives in its permanent collection. As ABFF approaches its 29th year, it continues to inspire change, paving the way for a more equitable entertainment landscape both in the U.S. and internationally.
