OCTFME RECOGNIZES JAMES MAE AS THE JUNE 2026 FILMMAKER OF THE MONTH

(Washington, DC) – The District of Columbia Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) is proud to recognize filmmaker James Mae (they/them) as the June 2026 Filmmaker of the Month. Their work reflects a deep commitment to storytelling that not only documents lived experiences but inspires others to share their own — a vital contribution to community, culture, and democracy. This recognition is especially meaningful during Pride Month, as James’s work uplifts LGBTQ+ voices and expands representation across the District’s creative landscape. 

 

James is the Owner and Executive Director of Starlight Productions, a filmmaking company dedicated to fostering human connection through storytelling while uplifting LGBTQ+ and minority creatives. They began their career in traditional journalism before transitioning into photography and filmmaking in 2025, focusing on documentary storytelling and authentic narratives rooted in community and resilience. 
 
“James Mae represents the vibrant creativity, innovation, and storytelling excellence that define Washington, DC’s independent film community,” said LaToya Foster, OCTFME Director and Film Commissioner. “Their commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices, including LGBTQ+ stories, reflects the inclusive spirit of DC’s creative economy. We are proud to recognize them as our June Filmmaker of the Month.” 

James completed their first short documentary, “Hidden in the Spotlight,” serving as Producer, Director, Editor, and Director of Photography. The film explores how local theater actors navigate family, love, and sacrifice while pursuing their artistic dreams. It screened at DC Trans Pride and has been selected for the Signal Film Festival in Silver Spring, MD, as well as an upcoming Pride film festival in New Mexico this month. 
 
They currently serve as a Production Assistant on the comedy web series “Off the Hill,” while also contributing as an Arts Journalist for The Washington City Paper and The 51st. 

 

“I am honored to add to the legacy of the OCTFME Filmmaker of the Month program,” said James. “DC is a place where creativity is celebrated, where LGBTQ+ artists are supported, and where storytellers can thrive while building lasting community impact.” 
 
James’s additional film credits include “Bare,” for which they served as Director of Photography and which is also an official selection of the Signal Film Festival; “Con Joined at the Hip,” the Women in Film & Video 48 Hour Film Project, screened at AFI Silver Theatre and currently under consideration for “Best Of” honors; and their photojournalism project, “The Art of Resistance,” documenting protest art across DC, which earned finalist recognition for the Society of Professional Journalists DC Dateline Awards. 
 
James earned a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies from Wright State University and is currently pursuing a Master of Professional Studies in Journalism with a focus on visual storytelling, along with a graduate certificate in Screenwriting at Georgetown University. 
 
OCTFME continues to celebrate local creatives who are shaping the District’s thriving film and media landscape. James’s dedication to storytelling, community, and cultural preservation embodies the spirit of the Filmmaker of the Month program. 
 
Audiences can connect with James and explore their work on Instagram (@james_p_mae) and at starlightproductions.co/. 

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:

• 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)  
• D.C. Radio (96.3 HD4), OCTFME’s owned and operated digital radio station, in partnership with Howard University’s WHUR. 
• 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).
• 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).   
• 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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