OCTFME RECOGNIZES SHAWN COSBY AS THE MARCH 2025 FILMMAKER OF THE MONTH

Washington, D.C. – The DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) is proud to recognize Shawn Cosby as the March 2025 Filmmaker of the Month. A multi-talented creative force, Cosby is a writer, co-director, actress, choreographer, and artistic director who has made significant contributions to film, television, and performing arts.

 

A professionally trained actress and dancer, Cosby has built an impressive career with appearances in major productions such as House of Cards, BET’s Trophy Wife, A Wesley Christmas Wedding, and the Hush series on ALLBLK Network. She is the Writer and Co-Director of the independent film "33rd & Memphis," which features over 100 dancers from Washington, DC. The film is currently screening nationwide and will be showcased at the Las Vegas Black Film Festival in April 2025. 

 

Cosby’s contributions extend beyond the screen. As the Artistic Director for CenterStage Academy for the Arts, she has trained and mentored countless young performers, leading the Showbiz Dancers and Showbiz Next Generation Performers to national acclaim. Her work as a choreographer for numerous recording artists, films such as Step Up, and over 400 off-Broadway musicals has cemented her status as a master teacher in dance. She was also featured by NBC during The Wiz Live, highlighting the impact of the arts in public schools.

 

“Shawn Cosby is a powerhouse creative who embodies the spirit of D.C.’s dynamic film and performing arts community,” said LaToya Foster, DC Film Commissioner and Director of OCTFME. “Her dedication to storytelling, mentorship, and creating spaces for other artists to thrive is exactly what makes D.C. a growing hub for film and television. We are thrilled to recognize her as our Filmmaker of the Month.”

 

For Cosby, this recognition is deeply meaningful. “Not only is it an honor to be recognized as Filmmaker of the Month, but it validates that hard work pays off, that the right people see your efforts, and that my home—D.C.—will always support me,” Shawn said. “This is bigger than me; it’s about making D.C. a true mecca for TV and film. I am just a vessel being used to tell stories and a space maker for many other creatives to achieve their passion and purpose. It reminds me that I am… not forgotten.”

 

A graduate of the University of Maryland with a background in theater and film, Cosby’s passion for storytelling began early. Inspired by her mother—one of the first African American students to attend the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati—Cosby wrote her first script in third grade and never looked back. She has since written and directed multiple films, including Those We Don’t Speak of (2024), 33rd & Memphis (2020), and The Called web series (2013).

 

Her upcoming projects include a new suspense film in pre-production and a musical adaptation of Cinderella, “Everleigh After,” which will tour various cities.

 

For media inquiries, contact Shawn Cosby, [email protected] or (301) 806-8069.

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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