Celebrate Black storytelling, creativity, and the future of film at an exciting panel discussion hosted by the Micheaux Award & Film Labs in partnership with AMFA.
This dynamic conversation will feature leaders from Netflix, independent film, and award-winning documentaries discussing representation, creative careers, and the power of media to shape culture.
Featured Panelists Include:
Deshaun Artis — Director of Community Marketing & Experiences, Netflix
Arlo Washington — Founder, Academy Award Nominee (The Barber of Little Rock)
The Micheaux Award & Film Labs (MAFL) are designed to promote creative and professional development for filmmakers of color through two initiatives: The Micheaux Award, which distributes funds annually to filmmakers of color; and The Micheaux Labs, which facilitates year-round education and social events that support Arkansas creative communities.
MAFL encourages diverse content creation, equip creatives of color to tell their own stories, and cultivate audiences that are truly reflective of our communities.
This is an official Juneteenth in Da Rock affiliate event.
DeShaun Artis, a native of Magnolia, Arkansas, and alumnus of the University of Arkansas, is a community marketing leader at Netflix House Dallas, a first-of-its-kind entertainment venue where Netflix series and films are brought to life through immersive experiences.
Serving on the venue’s leadership team, DeShaun bridges on-site operations with Netflix’s global Experience teams, specializing in local fan engagement, title-driven programming, and large-scale event execution. His previous marketing experience spans Sam’s Club, Deloitte, Lerma Advertising Agency, and Dentsu Creative.
Through his work, DeShaun hopes to demonstrate that unique voices matter, and that representation in the advertising and marketing industry makes a real difference. Outside of work, he’s a food explorer, outdoor enthusiast, and avid traveler currently based in Dallas, TX.
Arlo Washington is a Little Rock entrepreneur, educator, and community development leader dedicated to expanding economic opportunity. As founder of Washington Barber College, the People Trust Loan Fund, and People Trust Community Federal Credit Union, he has helped hundreds of individuals access career training, financial education, and capital.
His work to promote financial inclusion and community empowerment has earned national recognition, including through his acclaimed film, The Barber of Little Rock, an Oscar-nominated documentary that chronicles his efforts to address wealth disparities and create pathways to financial empowerment.
Through entrepreneurship, mentorship, and advocacy, Washington continues to transform lives and strengthen communities across Arkansas and beyond.
SeJames Humphrey is an award-winning filmmaker, writer, producer, and actor from Little Rock, Arkansas. He is best known for his feature film Nice Guys Finish Last, which earned critical acclaim and helped secure his recognition as the 2023 Arkansas Times Best Filmmaker. Available on Tubi, the film has built a loyal audience through its compelling storytelling and memorable performances.
SeJames’s work has been featured in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, AY Magazine, Shoutout Atlanta, and Voyage ATL. Known for his creative vision and dedication to impactful storytelling, he continues to make his mark as a rising force in independent filmmaking.