Welcome to the heart of our festival! Our 2026 NBFF Committee is a dynamic ensemble of volunteers, each bringing their own unique knowledge, passion, and perspective to the selection process.
With members changing annually, this ensures our festival continuously captures the evolving narrative of the Black experience through cinema. Below, you’ll meet the individuals whose keen selections have shaped an inspiring lineup, championing stories that resonate with depth, diversity, and impact.
NBFF Committee
Richard Wesley
NBFF Committee, Chair
Richard Wesley is an American playwright and screenwriter. He is an associate professor at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts in the Rita and Burton Goldberg Department of Dramatic Writing.
Imani Lee-Hector
Patricia Faison
Millicent Matthews
LeRon Lee
LeRon Lee is a Newark, NJ native and graduate of Howard University. His early film career began assisting in the editing room at 40 Acres and a Mule. Since then, he has worked as crew on various films, directed short films, music videos, and commercials.
Dale Colston
Darryl Dwayne Walker
Maegan Douglas
Monisha Bernard
Yvonne Shirley
Yvonne Michelle Shirley is a director and producer of narrative and documentary films. She is a graduate of New York University's Tisch School of the Arts' Graduate Film Program, and is inspired by filmmaking in the social realist tradition.
Joyce Anne Judd
Reginald Blanding
