Washington, D.C. – The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCFTME) is thrilled to announce CHERRELLE SWAIN as the Filmmaker of the Month for May 2024. Cherrelle Swain is a film producer, creative strategist, and creator of Terra Rossa, a community-centered production company focused on social justice based in Washington, D.C. Her past clients include the American Cancer Society, Fiverr, TIAA, Documentary Producers Alliance, George Washington University, Picture Motion, and more. Bringing a unique perspective to storytelling, Cherrelle is passionate about uplifting narratives of ancestry, identity, and healing.
“Cherrelle's commitment and tireless effort are an inspiration to other up-and-coming filmmakers, demonstrating that they too can create their own path in the film industry. Your success is well-deserved, and I look forward to seeing what you produce next,” says Director LaToya Foster.
Before founding Terra Rossa, Cherrelle served as an educator, community organizer, and expat. She played a pivotal role in community engagement and strategic partnerships at Citybridge Education, supporting the development of innovative public charter schools in Washington DC led by founders of color.
“Being chosen as Filmmaker of the Month by the DC Office of Cable Television Film Music Entertainment (OCTFME) is a humbling honor that highlights the importance of nurturing a sense of community in the industry. I aim to inspire emerging filmmakers and convey that collaboration and support are essential, with the DC Film Office playing a vital role in facilitating impactful screenings and providing guidance for projects. I am grateful for their unwavering support in enabling filmmaking to flourish in Washington DC and for the continuous encouragement and opportunities they provide,” says Cherrelle.
Descending from Saint Paul, Minnesota's Rondo community, Cherrelle holds a BBA from Howard University and an MBA from the University of Sevilla in International Business. She has produced acclaimed documentary films such as "BLACK BOYS,” streaming on NBC Peacock. Her newest film, “IN DUE SEASON,” will have its world premiere at DC/DOX in June 2024.
Film Credits:
• BLACK BOYS - Associate Producer, NBC Peacock (2021)
• For What It’s Worth Film - Locations Manager, Impact Producer, BET (2024)
• American Fiction - Impact Producer (National Partnerships + Strategy Lead) MGM Amazon (2023)
• SHOW HER THE MONEY - Impact Producer - (2023)
• Official Selection SXSW EDU, Twin Cities (Best Documentary) Film Festival, Women’s Film Festival (Best Documentary Feature) LA International Film Festival, Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Doc Utah
• WAKE (2023) - Locations Manger
Website: www.terrarossa.io
Social Media: Instagram: @cherrelleswain
CHERRELLE SWAIN DC RADIO INTERVIEW
Want to learn more about Cherrelle Swain and her work? Click HERE to listen to her DC Radio interview.
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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.
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.
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The District’s government cable access channels District Council Channel (DCC), the District of Columbia Network (DCN), and the District Knowledge Network (DKN).
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DC 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 (DCE), 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 DCE Network App or at DCENetwork.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 DC Film, Television, and Entertainment Rebate Fund (DC 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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