The Michael Latt Legacy Fund has once again demonstrated its commitment to fostering creativity and community impact with its third cohort of Leading With Love grantees. This nonprofit, established in memory of Michael Latt, aims to support emerging talents whose work aligns with his passions and values. The fund's latest selections showcase a diverse range of disciplines, from filmmakers and artists to activists and educators, all united by their dedication to storytelling, advocacy, and social change.
Embracing Courageous Creativity
The Leading With Love initiative provides grants to support various projects, including artist fellowships, advocacy efforts, documentary films, and organizational endeavors. The fund's founders, Michelle and David Latt, emphasize that these grants embody Michael's belief in the power of leading with love through action. By backing exceptional storytellers and community leaders, the fund ensures that Michael's vision continues to inspire and create a positive impact.
Grantee Highlights
Artists & Organizations
- SoLa Foundation / Art in Action: This organization, focused on breaking the cycle of poverty, will empower young artists in South LA through mentorship and workshops.
- Protect the Sacred: Led by Allie Redhorse Young, this group educates and empowers Indigenous leaders, using storytelling to strengthen sovereignty and protect traditions.
- Jon Boogz / Stories Are Living Things (SALT): An immersive performance exploring the impact of movement and narratives on personal growth and community building.
Artists Fellowships
- Leo Aguirre: The Verano filmmaker receives a Panavision package to support his debut film, Verano, which explores themes of asylum and family.
- The Friend's House is Here: This film, directed by Maryam Ataei and Hossein Keshavarz, receives a grant to uplift bold new artistic voices.
- Kasey Elise Walker and Andrea Ellsworth: Co-directors of Too Many Hoops are awarded the inaugural Michael Latt Legacy / Further Adventures Fellowship, recognizing their exceptional storytelling.
Short Film and Advocacy
- Documentary Short by Chiké Okonkwo and Chris Advansun: This project, produced by Fiona Hardingham, explores creative expression as a pathway to healing and transformation, featuring notable figures like Ryan Coogler and Ava DuVernay.
- Jarrett Harper's Better Days: Harper's organization, Better Days, amplifies the voices of foster youth, as detailed in the short film I Got My Brother.
Community Initiatives
- Represent Justice: This organization uses storytelling to engage audiences in reimagining the legal system for positive change.
- Sundance Collab / Michael Latt Artist Residency: Supporting underrepresented storytellers early in their careers, this residency fosters creative and social impact projects.
- Harness Practitioner in Residency Program: A partnership with Harness, this initiative empowers activists and artists to strengthen community advocacy efforts.
Bold Futures
- Get Lit's Creative Career Lab: Preparing young adults for dream jobs through literary studies and creative expression.
- Howard University's Michael Latt Legacy Fellowship: Offering a full scholarship and creative guidance to a student committed to social justice and innovative storytelling.
- Young Women's Freedom Center's Freedom Conversations: Providing trauma-informed services and leadership development for youth.
- Venice Arts' Center for Creative Workforce Equity: Offering free training and stipends to underserved groups, focusing on digital storytelling and media production.
- Deon Jones' American Rave: Utilizing music and discourse to create cultural revival gatherings.
A Celebration of Impact
The Michael Latt Legacy Fund's work extends beyond financial support. It celebrates the impact of these grantees and the community they represent. An inaugural gathering at L.A.'s Underground Museum on October 4th will honor the foundation's work and the incredible individuals it supports. This event highlights the fund's commitment to not only providing resources but also to creating a platform for these creative and courageous voices.
Conclusion
The Michael Latt Legacy Fund's third cohort of grantees exemplifies the power of storytelling and community engagement. By investing in these projects and organizations, the fund ensures that Michael Latt's legacy continues to inspire and drive positive change. It's a testament to the belief that leading with love can create a ripple effect of impact, and I find it truly inspiring to see how these grants are empowering a new generation of creatives and activists.
