Harlem Film School Vision, Mission and Core Values
Mission: Harlem Film School is dedicated to empowering aspiring young filmmakers with the knowledge, skills and artistic vision necessary to create impactful stories in the visual medium of film. With a commitment to diversity, innovation, and community engagement, we aim to create a new generation of talented storytellers equipped to amplify the rich human narratives of Harlem, New York City, and Beyond by fostering cinematic excellence and cultural dialogue.
Harlem Film School envisions a dynamic and inclusive hub, pulsing with creativity and collaboration, where aspiring filmmakers are nurtured and mentored, a film arts incubator where a talent pool of diverse voices converges to shape the future of storytelling. Our vision is to be a catalyst for cinematic innovation, breaking boundaries and fostering a global community of storytellers who illuminate the human experience with authenticity, empathy, and a profound appreciation for cultural richness.
Core Values:
1. Diversity and inclusion: we celebrate and embrace a multitude of perspectives, cultures, and voices, recognizing the strength that comes from a rich tapestry of backgrounds within our film community.
2. Excellence in Film Art and Craft: We uphold a standard of excellence, evidenced by the presence of industry professionals in our administration and on our faculty who will be equipping our students with the skills, knowledge, and artistic sensibilities needed to create compelling and impactful films.
3. Community Engagement: We actively engage with the broad Harlem community and various other communities of New York's melting pot, fostering connections, collaborations, and a sense of social responsibility, empathy, and respect, both among our students and staff and with the outside world.
4. Innovation: We encourage a spirit of innovation and exploration, pushing boundaries in storytelling, media, and film production; navigating an ever-evolving cinematic landscape; and embracing, at the same time, both the best traditional methodologies and forefront digital technologies.
5. Empowerment: We empower aspiring filmmakers by providing a supportive and inclusive environment, nurturing their unique talents, and instilling confidence in their ability to make a positive impact through their storytelling.
6. Ethical Filmmaking: We promote ethical practices in filmmaking, emphasizing integrity, responsibility, and a commitment to telling stories that contribute positively to our Multicultural
Society.
7. Lifelong Learning: We foster a culture of lifelong learning, encouraging continuous growth, adaptation to industry changes, and the pursuit of knowledge and mastery in the art and craft of filmmaking.
Pedro Resto, Founder, and Executive Director
Harlem Film School