LOS ANGELES, CA — [March 16, 2026] — Building on nearly three decades as the entertainment industry’s premier pipeline for Black talent, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) today announced the launch of the ABFF Masterclass Series, a new year-round online learning platform designed to give emerging creatives direct access to some of the industry’s most accomplished directors, producers, and executives.
The inaugural session of the series, programmed in association with New York Film Academy (NYFA), will take place on March 26, 2026, featuring “Crafting Standout Screenplays,” led by producer and screenwriter Carolyn McDonald. This 75-minute program will cover the basics of a 3-act feature screenplay, along with elements that offer participants tools to enhance their screenwriting skills to create signature works that stand out. For more information and to register, please click the link HERE.
The ABFF Masterclass Series launches in response to growing global demand for high-quality, accessible professional development within the entertainment industry. Designed as a quarterly online webinar program, the series will feature leading filmmakers, executives, and creative leaders sharing insights into both the craft and business of storytelling.
Hosted live via Zoom, the program will provide participants with expert-led conversations on directing, producing, film finance, screenwriting, acting, AI-driven storytelling, and emerging creative technologies. Each session combines professional instruction, real-world case studies, and interactive Q&A, creating a dynamic learning environment for the next generation of storytellers.
“For nearly 30 years, ABFF has served as a premier discovery platform for new voices in film and television,” said Nicole Friday, Co-Founder & President of NICE CROWD. “The Masterclass Series is a natural evolution of that mission. By extending our reach beyond the annual festival, we are helping bridge the gap between aspiration and opportunity by bringing the industry’s playbook directly to storytellers—no matter where they are in the world.”
The 2026 Masterclass curriculum will explore the full spectrum of today’s entertainment landscape, equipping creators with practical insights into both the creative and business sides of the industry. Key topic areas will include:
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- The Director’s Chair: Crafting a creative vision for film and television.
- The Business of Indie Film: Financing, packaging, and distribution strategies.
- Script to Screen: Advanced screenwriting and story development.
- The Digital Frontier: Navigating AI, XR, and emerging storytelling technologies.
- Career Navigation: Acting craft and the business of talent.
The launch of the Masterclass Series also comes as the American Black Film Festival approaches its landmark 30th anniversary, which will be celebrated May 27–31, 2026, in Miami Beach. Since its founding in 1997, ABFF has played a critical role in launching the careers of filmmakers and actors whose work has helped shape contemporary film and television.
Delivered in a virtual format, the Masterclass Series connects emerging storytellers with industry expertise while fostering a global community navigating the evolving landscape of independent and studio production.
About the American Black Film Festival (ABFF)
Founded in 1997 by Jeff Friday, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is the premier festival dedicated to recognizing Black talent and showcasing film and television content created by and about people of African descent. Widely regarded as the industry’s leading pipeline for emerging Black storytellers, ABFF has played a pivotal role in launching the careers of many of today’s most acclaimed filmmakers, actors, and creative voices. Each year, the festival brings together filmmakers, industry executives, and audiences from around the world for a five-day celebration of storytelling, culture, and career advancement through screenings, panels, masterclasses, and networking opportunities. The festival’s 30th anniversary edition will take place May 27–31, 2026, in Miami Beach.
About NICE CROWD
NICE CROWD is a pioneering live events company operating at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and tourism. Founded by Nicole and Jeff Friday, the company produces high-impact festivals, awards shows, and destination experiences in major U.S. cities and global markets. Guided by its philosophy, The Power of Gathering, NICE CROWD believes that when people come together, creativity flourishes, new voices are amplified, and meaningful connections are made. The company harnesses that energy to deliver culturally relevant experiences while generating measurable economic impact for its partners. Through expertise in event production, audience engagement, and strategic partnerships, NICE CROWD creates platforms that celebrate groundbreaking artists and innovators while connecting brands, media, and audiences in meaningful ways. www.nicecrowd.com
More information about the American Black Film Festival (ABFF): https://www.abff.com/miami/