Washington, D.C. – The DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) is proud to recognize Daria Simone Strachan as the February 2025 Filmmaker of the Month. A Ward 7 native, Daria is a freshman at Loyola Marymount University, majoring in Film and Television Production.
Daria has already made a significant impact within the world of storytelling. As a former student member and intern with Women in Film and Video DC (WIFV), she worked closely with local filmmakers and produced documentaries for DC-based nonprofits, including the Anacostia Youth Media Festival’s Documentary Project.
“At just 18, Daria is already amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering meaningful change through film,” says OCTFME Director LaToya Foster. “Her dedication to storytelling is inspiring, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for her.”
Daria’s award-winning short film, “As You Are”, created through Black Girls Film Camp (BGFC), explores self-acceptance and belonging through the lens of a young queer girl navigating her religious upbringing. The film has earned multiple accolades, including:
• Most Impactful Film – BGFC 2024 Showcase
• Selections at Lady Filmmakers Film Festival, City of Angels Women’s Film Festival, Micheaux Film Festival, and the 2025 Pan African Film and Arts Festival in Los Angeles.
“As a teen storyteller born and raised in Southeast DC, I am honored to be recognized by OCTFME,” says Daria Simone Strachan. “Programs like the Anacostia Youth Media Festival and Black Girls Film Camp have been instrumental in my journey, and I hope this inspires other young filmmakers to seek support from these incredible organizations.”
Beyond filmmaking, Daria is a community leader, receiving the 2024 Sophie, Live Out Loud Award from SMYAL and being named a Point Foundation - NBC Universal Flagship Scholar. She also serves on the Black Girls Film Camp Alumni Board and as a BGFC Alumni Ambassador.
Follow @dariasfilms on Instagram and watch her award-winning short film, As You Are, here: https://bit.ly/4hhgwqh.
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About FILMMAKER OF THE MONTH
The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) launched the “Filmmaker of the Month” initiative as a vehicle for highlighting the talents and creative contributions of filmmakers that make the District of Columbia their home. The “Filmmaker of the Month” initiative is part of OCTFME’s mission to elevate the national and international profile of the District’s talented filmmakers.
***If you know of a filmmaker that would make a great future “Filmmaker of the Month,” please send OCTFME recommendations using this nomination form.
About OCTFME
The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME), an award-winning District of Columbia Government agency, leads the city’s extensive efforts to build and support a sustainable film, music, and entertainment creative economy and labor market. Additionally, OCTFME serves as the city’s cable television service provider regulator and as the customer service hub for cable subscribers.
OCTFME’s extensive portfolio includes:
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The District’s government cable access channels District Council Channel (D.C.C), the District of Columbia Network (D.C.N), and the District Knowledge Network (DKN)
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D.C. Radio (96.3 HD4), OCTFME’s owned and operated digital radio station, in partnership with Howard University’s WHUR.
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District of Columbia Entertainment Network (D.C.E), OCTFME’s 24-hour streaming platform available worldwide on ROKU, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV as well as iPhone and Android mobile devices (download the D.C.E Network App or at D.C.ENetwork.com).
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The handling of all of the District’s filmmaker production needs including permits, city services, and logistical support, job placement assistance, workforce development and the D.C. Film, Television, and Entertainment Rebate Fund (D.C. Rebate Fund).
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Providing additional support to the creative community through the Creative Affairs Office (CAO) and Mayor Muriel Bowser Presents: 202Creates initiative. CAO showcases and preserves the District of Columbia’s rich creative communities throughout all 8 Wards.
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