A Platform With Purpose: Gifted & Black Puts Black and POC Directors Centre Stage

Lemonade Presents and Ralph’s Gifted & Black delivered a sold-out celebration of film, culture, and community on Thursday, 23 October 2025, at All Is Joy Studios, Soho, London — spotlighting the bold storytelling of eight exceptional Black and POC directors. Hosted by the super-smooth Mr Cee, the night championed the filmmakers - their talent, their perspectives, their voices - from the first frame to the final ovation.

Gifted & Black is part of the Lemonade Presents cultural calendar - purpose-driven events that build meaningful industry relationships and uplift underrepresented creative voices across film, art and music.

The event was presented in partnership with Ralph and Black History Month and proudly supported by Omnicom Production, Rohtau, Covert, All Is Joy Studios, FORM and The Visionaries.

Watch the Night Unfold

The full gallery is available here:

A Night for Filmmakers

A carefully curated lineup of shorts opened the evening with power and personality, each film selected for its craft, originality, and perspective. The audience response was immediate and electric. Every story landed with cheers, laughter, and moments of honest quiet as the room took in the weight of what was on screen. It was clear that this programme did more than entertain. It validated the filmmakers, celebrated their vision, and reminded everyone in the room that these voices are essential to the future of British cinema.

Once the credits rolled, All Is Joy Studios shifted into full celebration mode — live performances, DJ sets and a gallery takeover showcasing Black photographers and visual artists turned the venue into a late-night cultural playground where filmmakers connected and new collaborations sparked.

“Being pulled up on stage at the end of the evening and standing alongside so many talented directors was a real honour,” said Corin West, Managing Director of Lemonade Reps and founder of Lemonade Presents. “The room was heaving, the crowd was hyped and the love for these directors and their films was so real. It wasn’t our night - it was theirs all the way.”

And from the Jury…

"Lemonade continues to be one of the leading hubs for showcasing and supporting marginalised groups, directors, and filmmakers within London’s advertising creative community,” said Farai Brandon Mbudaya, Bubble TV. “They seize every opportunity to genuinely highlight and support industry leaders as well as those developing their careers, while also keeping track of emerging trends. Gifted And Black was perhaps one of the only showcases dedicated to highlighting Black History Month this month and it was done with style, a lot of love, and ease. It’s rare to see an entire row of truly exceptional and distinctly different works from directors as I did that evening. Not only was each film of high quality, but each had something unique to say, with some being deeply emotional, delicate, and hugely resonant. Being a judge for this was not only an honour but also a source of immense pride, especially considering the joy, laughter, and sense of unity the crowd experienced that night. The host, Mister Cee, demonstrated an absolute masterclass in relatable yet grounded and effortless MCing. Such a joy. Here's to more events like these in the future". 

“Watching so many films by talented Black creatives reminded me how unstoppable creativity is. It felt good to just be - to connect, laugh, and belong in a space that wants to be apart of the sharing. Mega!” - Tina Mwazange, BBH

“It was great to be part of the Gifted & Black Event with Lemonade, proudly supported by us at Omnicom Production. The event provided an important space to showcase diverse talent, celebrate individuality, and foster a supportive community atmosphere.” - Nazneen Read, Omnicom Production 

Official Film Selections

When You’re Too Scared To Say Black - Tai Campbell
 A sharp and hilarious skit exposing the awkward art of overthinking “political correctness.”

Precious Hair and Beauty - John Ogunmuyiwa
 A vibrant and witty ode to the cultural magic of the British high street.

A Band Apart -  Ruth Hunduma
A reimagining of Godard’s iconic style through a fresh, Black cinematic lens.

1UP - Greg Francis
A moving story of a son’s grief — and healing found through his late father’s records.

The Perfect Knight -  Stephané Alexandre
A blind date that blossoms into a beautifully imperfect night of connection.

Oba - Femi Oladigbolu
A surreal journey where spiritual legacy and London life collide.

Seeds - Darnell Depradine
A poetic exploration of identity, tradition and finding your own voice.

Greenpeace: Don’t Stop - Samona Olanipekun
A chaotic party with a wake-up call: the earth can’t afford the hangover.

A Jury of Industry Leaders

Selected from 80+ submissions, the programme was evaluated by a powerhouse panel including:

  • Tina Mwazange (BBH)

  • Job Bertrand (RSA)

  • Selma Nicholls (Looks Like Me Casting)

  • Farai Brandon Mbudaya (Bubble TV)

  • Michael Grant (Vimeo)

  • Sebastian Whyte (Director)

  • Soul Zwane (Creators Inc.)

  • Leah Wattley (Dark Horses)

  • Stacia Akaba (Rascal)

  • Antoinette De-Lisser (Consultant)

  • Aletha Shepherd (Shot of Tea)

  • Sibusisiwe Khupe (Wieden+Kennedy)

  • Dionne Archibald (Coffee & TV)

  • Lwimbo Malanda (Wieden+Kennedy)

  • Kojo Abban (LS Productions)