2026 Micheaux Awardees

 Obedience Over Sacrifice is a short film inspired by a body of music created to tell a deeper story about purpose and alignment. While music has always been my primary storytelling tool, the fast pace of modern consumption often makes it difficult for audiences to fully digest the narrative within it. This film exists as a way to visually express what the music was already saying.

Obedience Over Sacrifice explores the idea that every person is created with purpose for a purpose. As awareness of that calling grows, tension arises between alignment and the many things that compete for attention. Not all distractions are negative, but anything that pulls a person away from purpose becomes a hindrance. Through visual storytelling, Obedience Over Sacrifice shows that true peace is found not in sacrifice or striving, but in obedience to the strategy that leads through purpose.

Breaking the Silence is a short form documentary in the OURKansas series that explores how these beliefs take root, how they impact the mental, emotional, and physical health of Black men, and what happens when that silence goes unchallenged. Through intimate conversations with Black men, mental health professionals, and community voices across Arkansas, this film examines the cultural pressures, generational trauma, and systemic barriers that often prevent Black men from seeking care. It also highlights the power of vulnerability, therapy, and open dialogue as tools for healing, not just for individuals, but for families and entire communities.

This documentary is not about diagnosing problems. It is about normalizing care, redefining strength, and creating space for Black men to be seen, heard, and supported. Breaking the Silence continues the series mission to preserve untold stories, elevate community voices, and spark conversations that lead to understanding, healing, and change.

Beyond the Board explores the intersection of skateboarding and fashion as tools for identity, self-expression, and community-building within Arkansas’ skate scene. The project highlights how skateboarding and fashion naturally intertwine to shape culture and influence within the community of Arkansas.

Beyond the Board highlights how skateboarding and fashion naturally intertwine to shape culture and influence within the community of Arkansas. I aim to ensure that skaters and especially Black skaters and creatives are seen, valued, and accurately represented.