Introducing the talented creators of the inaugural NAACP Editing Fellowship program, in partnership with Adobe
Representation is critical in film and television, both on the screen and behind the scenes. It makes stories relatable, fosters empathy and understanding, and creates a sense of empowerment for those both telling the stories, and experiencing them.
Earlier this year, Adobe and the NAACP partnered to announce the NAACP Editing Fellowship program, in partnership with Adobe, a new program in its inaugural year, that would amplify diverse voices in the world of post-production. Through education, training, career growth, and mentorships, underrepresented creators and filmmakers will be able to receive access to the entertainment industry to help them achieve their individual goals.
The Adobe x NAACP Editing Fellowship is part of the Adobe TV and Film Fund withof $6 million in grants and donations to global nonprofit organizations with the goal of accelerating the careers of diverse creators in film and television. Today, we’re proud to announce the four fellows chosen to receive the NAACP Editing Fellowship.
How the program works
The NAACP Editing Fellowship program, in partnership with Adobe is a 14-week program that focuses on three pillars:
- Education and training. Fellows receive training sessions on Adobe Creative Cloud and a series of masterclasses with renowned industry experts.
- Access and exposure. Each fellow will be paired with a successful working editor who provides guidance on projects and career advice. Fellows will also attend networking events, including the NAACP National Convention.
- Industry experience. Fellows will complete workplace rotations at the NAACP and the Oscar-winning production house Parallax Post.
2024 NAACP Editing Fellowship Fellows
Tyler Ocasio Holmes - Virginia Beach, VA
Tyler Ocasio Holmes graduated from Columbia University and started his career in New York City as an, “overworked, underrepresented Black paralegal on Wall Street”. Recently, he relocated from New York to Los Angeles to pursue his filmmaking ambitions as a writer, director, and editor. His debut short film earned him acceptance to USC's MFA program within the School of Cinematic Art’s Film and Television Production, where he’s collaborated on a multitude of short films, music videos with Universal Music Group, and even ventured into the realm of animation with a series developed in conjunction with Johns Hopkins University.
"Being selected as a fellow for an esteemed organization such as the NAACP, which has held a revered place in my household since childhood, is humbling and truly a dream,” Holmes says. “I'm eager to collaborate with and learn from some of the industry's finest, with the shared objective of amplifying more Black narratives within the film industry.”
Tchara Dennis - Los Angeles, CA
Tchara Dennis’s journey into video editing began at the age of 14, fueled by her father's influence as a video editor himself. “Watching him work ignited a passion in me for storytelling,” Dennis says. Today, Dennis is a YouTube producer for a popular channel, though her ultimate goal is to transition from YouTube content to scripted narratives, bringing captivating stories to life in a “whole new dimension”.
“Being selected as a fellow means the world to me,” Dennis says. “It's an incredible opportunity to expand my knowledge, skills, and network in the production industry. I'm eagerly looking forward to meeting and learning from new people who share my passion for editing and storytelling. This fellowship represents a chance to grow professionally and personally, and I'm thrilled at being able to dive deep into the world of editing alongside like-minded peers and mentors.”
Derrick Moore - Houston, TX
Derrick Moore is a filmmaker based in Houston, Texas. He studied at Alabama State University, where he “discovered his passion for storytelling”, and later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Norfolk State University and a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Houston.
Following a brief stint in New York City, Moore relocated to California and founded Moorflics in a San Diego garage in 2020, with the goal of creating high quality films and advertising centered around Black Americans.
"As someone deeply inspired by the profound legacy of the NAACP, I am truly filled with joy to have the opportunity to contribute to and become a part of this esteemed organization,” Moore says. “The chance to collaborate and forge connections with such established creatives is incredibly meaningful to me, and I eagerly anticipate the journey ahead."
Alexandria Shaw - Los Angeles, CA
Alexandria Shaw is an assistant editor with a background in film marketing. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Film and Africana Studies from Vassar College, and she currently assists on documentary projects. In her spare time, Shaw enjoys plant care, video games, and reading.
“It is the utmost honor to be selected for this fellowship,” Shaw says. “I am humbled to be granted the opportunity to gain invaluable experience and learn directly from esteemed industry professionals committed to diverse and inclusive storytelling.”
Adobe: Creativity for All
Adobe believes everyone deserves the opportunity to create and make their voice heard. Adobe tools support creators of all ages and backgrounds so they can express themselves, use their creativity for good, and reach their full potential. Creative Cloud provides all the tools you need in one place. Learn more about how Adobe is elevating diverse voices here.
The NAACP Hollywood Bureau
Since 1909, the NAACP has fought for civil rights and social justice and worked to ensure political and educational equality for all Americans. Its Hollywood Bureau advocates for equitable opportunity and representation in film and television that reflect diverse communities. Learn more about the NAACP here and the Hollywood Bureau here.