“We hope to give the tools and resources to the next Native filmmakers needed to follow their dreams. This project came about from when I was young and wanted to become a filmmaker but did not know where to start or how to practice on my own.”
Josiah Jones, 26, is a successful filmmaker, entrepreneur, and dedicated role-model from the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma. Josiah was born and raised in Oklahoma, and from an early age he recognized the importance of intertribal community and interconnected support. Josiah forged a path for himself into a career in filmmaking and currently works at a Native-Owed production company in Oklahoma. Josiah is dedicated to sharing his success with his community and uplifting Native storytellers.
Indigenous representation in films and mainstream media is crucial for native youth and their ability to dream, unfortunately Native American Representation in media and media industry-based careers is nearly non-existent. In a study conducted by the University of Southern California, which evaluated the 1,600 top-grossing films between 2007 and 2022, less than 0.25% of all speaking roles went to Native American characters. Off screen creative roles like writing and directing face even worse odds. Inspired by his own journey and breakthrough in the Film Industry, Josiah aims to share his success with his larger Native community and uplift the next generation of Native Filmmakers.
Josiah’s program, “The Next Storytellers”, will uplift and empower the next generation of Native Filmmakers to share their unique culture and perspective, from across Indian Country. Through his partnership with Vision Maker Media and Pursuit Films, Josiah will bring in knowledgeable and noteworthy professionals to help him lead in person and hands on filmmaking workshops. Workshops will include motivational talks, rudimentary film making techniques, and overall skill building to foster collaboration and confidence in the Native Youth he serves.
