Google Black Summit Manifesto
Brought on as the Film Director for Google’s Black Summit, I was tasked with setting the tone for the entire experience. The ask was to create a manifesto film—something powerful, cinematic, and rooted in truth—that could open the summit and immediately command the room.
Objectives
- Set the Tone: Open the summit with a film that didn’t just welcome people, but moved them. It needed to feel bold, intentional, and aligned with the heart of the event.
- Inspire & Empower: Celebrate the brilliance and potential of the Black community in tech—and beyond—while holding space for both progress and possibility.
- Reflect the Brand: Make sure every frame aligned with Google’s core values of innovation, inclusion, and representation.
Approach
Creative Development
Partnered with Google’s event and brand teams to get clear on the emotional tone and core message. From there, built a narrative that was honest, aspirational, and rooted in community.
Storyboarding
Laid out the visual arc of the film—scene by scene—so every moment served a purpose. Focused on rhythm, symbolism, and balance between imagery and message.
Directing the Shoot
Led a production that centered authenticity. Every shot, every performance was crafted to feel human, powerful, and connected to the larger story of the summit.
Post-Production
Oversaw editing, sound design, and finishing. Blended visuals, score, and voice to create a final piece that hit emotionally and stayed with people long after the summit started.
Team Collaboration
Worked hand-in-hand with cinematographers, editors, sound designers, and Google’s internal team to ensure every detail felt intentional and true to the story we were telling.
Results
- Emotional Resonance: The film struck a chord. Attendees described it as powerful, affirming, and deeply reflective of their own journeys.
- Immediate Engagement: It set the tone from the first minute—pulling people into the summit with energy and purpose.
- Brand Alignment: Google’s team called it one of the most impactful openers they’ve ever used, capturing both mission and message with clarity.
- Creative Praise: Both internal stakeholders and attendees highlighted the storytelling and direction as a standout element of the summit experience.