Amidst a Georgia film industry that’s constantly in action, so is Melissa Simpson – on two fronts. Simpson is co-founder and executive director of Film Impact Georgia, a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting the voices of independent filmmakers in the state.
Ebony Blanding, a prominent figure in the film industry, has been awarded the Discover Dunwoody Quarterly Award for Distinguished Production Associate for Q2 of 2024.
Peter Bowden turned an early focus on broadcast, communication, public relations, sales and marketing, and advertising into a career with VisitColumbusGA in 1995. A lifelong resident of the tri-community area, he’s been generating and fortifying Columbus’ interests and involvement in tourism, film, the arts, and overall economic development ever since.
Dave Brown USA is the walking example of a bridge that stands the test of time, his friend Jamie Foxx says. Through decades of bringing professionals together, nothing has made Dave crumble, and he is certain that nothing ever will.
Our recent meetings have centered heavily around international opportunities and collaborations. Georgia’s creatives are reaching out globally to expand their businesses, while other countries are seeking production connections with Georgia. Cities and counties in the state are working with foreign officials to explore cultural alignment, and universities are highlighting bilateral cooperation through educational programs.
Michael Uribe brings film experience from all over the world to the Peach State. After working in the production industry for more than 20 years, domestically and internationally, he came to Georgia in 2018 to set up his home base and business.
Director of Film and Entertainment for the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office is a big title that industry veteran Cardellia Hunter fills to capacity. An Atlanta resident who relocated from Los Angeles, her background includes experience in music, television, and film.
“Many highly talented, intelligent people think they’re not because the thing they were good at at school wasn’t valued—or was actually stigmatized,” Robinson says. “We need to radically rethink our view of intelligence; we need a new conception of the richness of human capacity.”
“I’ve been blessed to … watch and contribute to our state’s growth in entertainment, putting us on the map and making the Peach State a sought-after destination to both live and work.”
Traditionally, cities receive all the recognition and shoutouts—Atlanta, Hollywood, Chicago, NYC, and on and on. But in Georgia, Atlanta and the state walk hand and hand as it relates to what takes place in entertainment.