HUE Avenue Inc. Launches as Independent Non-Profit in St. Petersburg

HUE Avenue Inc. Has officially launched as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in St. Petersburg, Florida, with a mission to increase representation for Black, Brown, and underrepresented communities within the film and television industries.

According to reporting by I Love the Burg, the organization was developed from the previous community-driven programming, partnerships, and storytelling initiatives led by Black On The Scene. As a standalone nonprofit, HUE Avenue Inc. Aims to empower marginalized storytellers by providing the tools and access necessary to bring their narratives to the screen.

Organizational Vision and Leadership

Founder and Executive Director Tamia Iman Kennedy stated that the inspiration for the nonprofit is rooted in personal experience. Kennedy noted that Film and television have shaped my life in profound ways, and expressed the importance of seeing diverse lived experiences reflected in media.

I’ve fallen in love with seeing Black and Brown lived experiences reflected on screen. Those stories shaped how I see myself and what I believe is possible.Tamia Iman Kennedy

Kennedy indicated that HUE Avenue Inc. Is designed to provide exposure and explore storytelling avenues that may not otherwise feel accessible to members of the community. She noted that I grew up as an avid TV and movie buff and know firsthand how difficult it is to bring a story to life, and certain stories are not as accessible, highlighting the barriers that aspiring creators often face.

Programs and Community Support

To support creatives at various stages of their development, HUE Avenue Inc. Is implementing a series of programs focused on education and professional exposure. These initiatives are intended to provide real-world industry experience for individuals who may lack existing professional connections.

• Pipeline programs to facilitate entry into the industry.
• Educational opportunities for both youth, and adults.
• Community film screenings.
• Support opportunities for creators.
• Future offerings including trainings, industry experiences, and festivals.

The organization’s core objective is to shift the demographics of who tells stories and who is represented in those narratives. By positioning itself as a catalyst for local creativity in St. Petersburg, HUE Avenue Inc. Seeks to ensure that underrepresented voices are both seen and heard in the broader media landscape.