The Gotham Film & Media Institute celebrated the recipients of the inaugural Genesis House x The Gotham Shorts Fellowship on July 22.
(Courtesy Genesis House)
A glorious new initiative supporting the next generation of New York City independent filmmakers, the grand offerings of the fellowship were honored during a lively summer bash. Selected for their bold storytelling and creative vision, this year’s fellows are: MUMMA by Shanice Brette, The Only Man to Ever Exist by Annie Ning, and A Natural History by April Wen.
“These filmmakers embody the kind of bold creativity and fresh perspective that Genesis House was created to champion,” said Tedros Mengiste, chief operating officer, Genesis Motor North America. “Through this fellowship, we’re proud to support emerging storytellers at a pivotal moment in their creative journey while fostering a community where ambitious ideas, meaningful collaboration and new voices can thrive.”
Providing emerging filmmakers with one-on-one mentorship and industry guidance to help bring their projects to fruition, the artists will benefit with expert guidance from Sean Wang, Director (Dìdi), Raven Jackson, Director (All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt), Josephine Decker, Director (The Sky Is Everywhere; upcoming Chasing Summer), and Matthew Gross, Producer, Authentic Brands Group.
“By pairing these emerging filmmakers with distinguished mentors, we’re providing additional resources at a pivotal moment in the filmmaking process,” said Jeffrey Sharp, executive director, The Gotham Film & Media Institute. “We’re proud to partner with Genesis House on an initiative that reflects our shared commitment to expanding opportunity and elevating distinctive voices in film and media.”
Each of the three selected filmmakers will receive:$10,000 in finishing funds for their narrative short film; specialized one-on-one mentorship sessions with industry professionals; access to exclusive Genesis House programming and events; special industry screening and panel during Gotham Week (September/October 2026); networking opportunities with established filmmakers and industry leaders; and visibility and acknowledgement throughout Gotham Week programming
Innovative projects were chosen from an expansive pool of applicants by The Gotham and Genesis House reviewers for their storytelling and vision. To mark the fellowship’s launch, Genesis House hosted an industry cocktail reception on July 22 at its Meatpacking District location, where fellows connected with their mentors and explored “Manifesting Marilyn: The Making of an Icon,“ the immersive cultural exhibition celebrating Marilyn Monroe’s centennial.
