About Us

In October 2022, our founder, Vici Howard, received an invitation to the Urban World Film Festival as a screenplay finalist. This recognition was more than an honor—it was the spark that ignited the vision for Black & Brown Femme Films (BBFF). It affirmed the importance of amplifying Black and Brown femme voices in the cinematic world.

Driven by passion and determination, Vici submitted her film, “The Singles,” to over 20 festivals in 2023, investing $700 in submission fees. Despite the anticipation, the repeated rejections were disheartening. Rather than giving up, Vici chose to transform frustration into resilience.

Determined to share her story on her own terms, Vici decided to self-host “The Singles” at the Music Box Theater, along with 5 other Black and Brown femme filmmakers. On October 7, 2023, the BBFF Showcase sold out with standing room only—proof that audiences were eager for diverse narratives. Buoyed by this success, BBFF applied for nonprofit status, marking a new chapter dedicated to fostering and celebrating Black and Brown femme creativity.

What began as a simple fundraiser for the BBFF film festival quickly evolved into the Inaugural Vibe Exhibition—a vibrant cultural celebration of women of color through art, film, and community engagement. This beloved event embodies our mission to create spaces where Black and Brown femmes can thrive and be celebrated.

In 2024, BBFF proudly announced its official nonprofit status, solidifying our commitment to elevating Black and Brown femme artists. We also formed a significant Arts Partnership with the Logan Center for the Arts at the University of Chicago, paving the way for collaborative projects and broader outreach.

With nonprofit status secured, we launched our first official film festival—BBFF ’24—alongside the continued success of the Vibe Exhibition: Celebrating Women of Color ’24. These events showcased exceptional talent and nurtured a supportive community for both creators and audiences.

Our mission gained further momentum through generous grants from: ● Awesome Foundation ● Illinois Humanities ● Crossroads Fund ● Illinois Field Foundation. These contributions allowed BBFF to expand our programs, support more artists, and deepen our community engagement, ensuring our work continues to flourish.

As we step into 2025, BBFF is more vibrant and impactful than ever. We continue building on our successes, fostering an environment where Black and Brown femmes can create, collaborate, and shine. Stay tuned for our upcoming events—including film screenings, workshops, and cultural celebrations—that honor and uplift this remarkable community.

Upcoming Events