Finding JaMia’s Spirit - Candace D. Patrick

Ashli Auguillard Biography

Ashli Auguillard (AKA Ashli with an “i”) is an actor from the small town of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana. She’s proudly the oldest of six siblings, and her hobbies include cooking, planting, and escape room games!

Ashli's acting journey started at the age of 11, where she landed a role in her first play, 'The Miser.' After attending LSU, Ashli made the leap to California in 2014 to pursue a full time acting career. You can find her shooting automatic rifles in the latest season of The Rookie and The Rookie Feds, guest starring across Nathan Fillion and Niecy Nash. She stands out as a new face on HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm, Season 11, holding her own with the likes of Larry David, Lucy Liu, and other heavy hitters. She also graces the screen in guest-starring and recurring roles on USA Network, the Hallmark Channel, Facebook Watch, Screambox TV.

Ashli also has plans to give back, but she isn't waiting for fame to make change. As CEO and cofounder of Oyo Market, an e-commerce platform for black owned products, she is already amplifying underrepresented communities in business. She hopes to expand her philanthropy as she rises, with a special and relatable place in her heart for impoverished Black youth and the homeless community.

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Taylor Chanel Breazell

as JaMia

Taylor Chanel Biography

Taylor is a talented six year old rising start. She loves her family and spending time with her big sister. When not on set, she’s a cheerleader for Fresno Elite Blaster. She’s excited about acting and being a big star!

Florence Avognon

as Gam Gam

Florence Avognon Biography

The youngest of four girls and child of a single mother, Florence Avognon grew up in South Los Angeles and immersed herself in African-American authors. She would subsequently earn several oratorical contests- even earning the LAUSD Academic Decathlon First Gold Medal in Speech at the 1983 - for her public speaking skills. During her senior year at Howard University, these skills would propel her to become the first woman and first African American to place 1st in Dramatic Interpretation in the N.I.E.T.

Nikki Giovanni and Lorraine Hansberry are the first names that you’ll hear if you ask Florence about her theatrical foundation. She has spent much of her career, as an award-winning educator, inspiring her students to pursue the arts and can proudly reference a roster of producers, actors, editors, and writers who sat in her class at her alma mater, Crenshaw High School. In 2013 she presented a sold-out performance of her one-woman show, “Makin Me Whole”, as a tribute to literary activists. She recently completed a successful Robey Theatre’s Advance Scene Study class, and was honored to use what she learned in the upcoming short film “Finding JaMia’s Spirit”! Florence is a proud mom, partner, sister, and soror.

Marshall Norman

as James

Marshall Norman Biography

Marshall Norman is a talented actor from Houston Tx. known for his captivating performances on stage and screen. With a passion for storytelling, he honed his craft through rigorous training in theatre. His dedication to his artistry and commitment to his characters shine through in every role he undertakes, captivating audiences with his dynamic performances. Marshall is also gifted singer, adding another dimension to his artistic repertoire.

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Our Crew

Candace D. Patrick (she/her)

Candace D. Patrick

Candace was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. She first became passionate about screenwriting in high school after her drama teacher encouraged her to apply to the Scriptwriters Network High School Fellowship Program, of which she was accepted. Participating in that fellowship led her to earn a Screenwriting degree from Loyola Marymount University, where she developed her voice by focusing on stories that authentically depict human journeys. Having had the opportunity to travel to 25+ countries while working in the field of study abroad, Candace learned that the feeling of joy is universal, but the path to joy and healing is uniquely traveled, often including laughter. Her writing frequently delves into themes of grief & healing, mental health, finding joy, and debunking the Strong Black Woman concept.

She earned semifinalist rankings for her first feature, “Glow,” in the 2010 StoryPros contest, and the 2017 Screencraft Film Fund for her short script, “Cycle.” In 2019, she wrote, directed, and produced the short film, “The 5th Room,” which received awards and nominations for Best Short, Best Writer, and Best Director. Since then, she has been involved in several independent film and web projects. Her 1-hour family drama pilot, “Harrington’s Crossing,” advanced to the finalist round of the Spring 2021 WeScreenplay Diverse Voices competition. Additionally, her script “Finding JaMia’s Spirit” led to her selection as a 2023 Reel Sisters Micro Budget Film Fellow.

Candace currently works as a Marketing Director for the study abroad program, Semester at Sea, a program she fell in love with after participating as a student on the Spring 2007 Voyage. When not writing, Candace loves to travel and engage in playful battles with her cat, Nougat, for the most comfortable seat in her apartment.

Producer/Director/Writer

Candace D. Patrick Biography

She earned semifinalist rankings for her first feature, “Glow,” in the 2010 StoryPros contest, and the 2017 Screencraft Film Fund for her short script, “Cycle.” In 2019, she wrote, directed, and produced the short film, “The 5th Room,” which received awards and nominations for Best Short, Best Writer, and Best Director. Since then, she has been involved in several independent film and web projects. Her 1-hour family drama pilot, “Harrington’s Crossing,” advanced to the finalist round of the Spring 2021 WeScreenplay Diverse Voices competition. Additionally, her script “Finding JaMia’s Spirit” led to her selection as a 2023 Reel Sisters Micro Budget Film Fellow.

Musau Onwubiko

Producer

IMDB

Musau Onwubiko Biography

Musau Onwubiko is a Producer based in Los Angeles, California who dedicates her time to producing films that give a voice to the experiences of the underrepresented. As a first-generation Congolese Nigerian American, Musau is passionate about telling stories that explore, promote, and uplift the cultural nuances of the African diaspora. She strives to create an intentional environment that recognizes all possibilities and potential to invite the most rewarding outcome for artists realizing their creative vision.

Musau has produced HARD (2023) and is currently in pre-production for FINDING JAMIA'S SPIRIT (2024) and WAYS TO FLY (2024). With every project, Musau aims to build a successful career in the entertainment industry while advocating for stories that center Black lives and promote redemption and collective healing.

B.P. Edwards

Director of Photography

B.P. Edwards Biography

B.P. Edwards is a talented Cinematographer and Camera Operator hailing from Pasadena, CA. With a diverse portfolio, he has successfully worked on a wide range of projects, including Feature Length Films, Short Films, Commercials, and Documentaries.

Notably, he gained recognition for his exceptional work on the short film "Just Friends," which was featured on Revolt TV. His skills and creativity caught the attention of Color Creative, earning him a spot as a Cinematographer in Cohort 1 of the "Find Your People" program.

B.P. Edwards is an Associate Member of the prestigious Society of Camera Operators, demonstrating his commitment to the craft and his dedication to the filmmaking community. His passion for cinematography and people shines through in every project he undertakes, making him a highly sought-after new professional in the industry.

Cesar Reyes

Production Designer

Cesar Reyes Biography

I graduated from California State University Northridge with a degree in Film Production, specializing in Editing.

I grew up in Lima, Peru, and from a young age, I developed a keen interest in visual arts through participation in numerous plays and folkloric dances. However, it was the behind-the-scenes production aspect that truly captivated me. During my high school years, I had the opportunity to assist in various play productions, including Jesus Christ Superstar and Don Quixote de la Mancha the musical.

Upon arriving in the United States, I took on a variety of jobs, which not only helped me acquire practical skills but also instilled in me the importance of teamwork. Despite facing language barriers, I pursued an Associate of Arts Degree in Graphic Design. While working as a graphic designer, I also served as an art director on multiple projects for diverse clients. Managing teams of artists and liaising with various vendors, I strived to fulfill clients' visions. This experience enhanced my understanding of time management, budgeting, and organization.

After years in a marketing company, I seized the opportunity to engage in video editing, commercial shooting, and promotional video production for clients. This inspired me to return to school and pursue my dream of becoming a director. Drawing on my artistic background, I contributed to various student films in the art department. I served as an art director for Chloe, contributed graphics and set design to Amal, and took on the role of Production Designer for Fix, El Mozote, Home, and Hot Latin Nights at the Granada.

Supported by my family, fueled by my passion for films, and driven by my aspiration to direct, I continue to pursue my dream relentlessly.

Wynton Payne

Editor

Wynton Payne Biography

For over a decade, Wynton has dedicated himself to the art of storytelling as a film and TV editor. His diverse journey through a myriad of genres has made a creative impact on independent endeavors and high-profile studio projects alike. Collaborating with industry giants such as Disney, Warner Bros., Lionsgate, Netflix, and Amazon Studios, Wynton has contributed to narratives that captivate and resonate deeply with audiences. A notable highlight is his work on The Mysterious Benedict Society, Season Two, for Disney+, where his natural handling of comedy, adventure, family, and mystery displays his adaptability and keen attention to narrative detail. His talent for merging these genres into a cohesive and compelling story speaks to his hard work and showcases his versatility.

Hailing from Chicago, Wynton has established a reputable presence in Hollywood. His expertise spans not only editing but also the demanding world of visual effects, where his unique artistic abilities can be seen in films and series like Space Jam 2: A New Legacy and Marvel's suite of series, including Luke Cage, The Defenders, Iron Fist, and Daredevil. His seamless integration of technical skill and artistic vision brings a unique depth and dimension to every project he works on.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Wynton enjoys mentoring and passionately sharing the wisdom and skills he has amassed throughout his career. Whether guiding graduate students just beginning their path or assisting seasoned professionals in refining their artistic processes, Wynton's dedication to mentorship is driven by a genuine desire to enrich the filmmaking community where he has shared with mentees many times that “editing is about care for the craft not racking up credits.” His commitment to fostering an environment where stories are engaging and authentic reflects his profound passion for storytelling and his belief in the power of the creative spirit.

Vahn Black

Composer and Vocalist

Vahn Black Biography

Born and raised in Detroit, Vahn Black grew up surrounded by the sounds of Motown, Jazz, Techno, and Gospel music. This sonic melting pot aided in Black cultivating her soul-charged sound, pulling vocal and production inspiration from artists like Sarah Vaughn and J Dilla.

As a teenager, Black attended the Detroit School of Arts where she received both jazz and classical training. Black continued her music education at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, receiving a B.A. in music performance and modern composition. Black's most recent work, The Gladys Bentley Project, is a collection of songs inspired by Gladys Bentley’s life and career as told in the 1952 Ebony magazine article I Am a Woman Again. Black’s work displays her efforts to preserve and uphold the stories and art of black musicians and the Black Forgotten––those whose stories have often been disregarded through prejudiced erasure or avoidance.

As a composer Black has lent her artistry to various art mediums from short films to interactive performance art, composing soundscapes for artists in residence at the Atlanta Contemporary museum and Atlanta Fashion Week runway showcases. In 2014 Black placed runner-up in the Detroit Jazz Festival's Youth Vocal competition and in 2023 was selected to perform at NPR's Tiny Desk on the Road Tour stop in Atlanta. She has also performed as an opening act for Anthony Hamilton, Chrisette Michelle, Elle Varner, and soul legends Frankie Beverly and Maze. In addition to performing center stage, Black has also supported jazz vocalist Kathleen Bertrand as a background singer and supports other artists as a vocal producer.

Bria Adams

Music Supervisor

Bria Adams Biography

A native of Douglasville, Georgia, Bria Adams is a creative, diligent, and forward-focused talent with a strong background in project management, planning, and coordinating. Upon graduating from Spelman College with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Bria became a mentee of the inaugural cohort of She Is The Music's Connect TogetHER mentorship program. The experience led to her first role in entertainment as an Executive Assistant to the Senior VP of TV Music for Disney Television Studios. In 2024, Bria began the next leg of her creative journey by bringing her talents to the Raedio division of Issa Rae’s Hoorae Media.

Actively building her career and expertise, Bria aims to champion artists by producing dynamic pairings between music and picture in serving as the Music Supervisor for independent short films like A Homecoming I'll Remember (2021) and Finding JaMia's Spirit (2024), with more special projects to come. Additionally, Bria values and practices community building as a member of organizations like She Is The Music, the Guild of Music Supervisors, and as the founder of Building Brilliance, an initiative to equip, prepare, and usher young women into adulthood.

Sharee Silerio

Unit Production Manager

Sharee Silerio Biography

Born and raised in St. Louis, MO, Sharee Silerio is a filmmaker who tells coming-of-age, self-discovery, and real-life stories where Black women and girls exist as full human beings on screen and feel seen, heard, loved, and affirmed beyond the screen. Her film and television credits include projects on cable and streaming platforms such as Netflix, Oxygen, Comedy Central, MTV, Prime Video and more. She is also a proud Firelight Media Groundwork Regional Lab fellow as well as a graduate of Continuity STL’s inaugural media training program.

Sharee's latest work is a celebrated short doc called Black Girl, Bleu, born from her personal challenges with mental health after the unexpected passing of her favorite uncle. The film, focused on how the “Strong Black Woman” stereotype impacts mental wellness, has won multiple awards from film festivals, including Outstanding Special Programming and Audience Choice for Best Documentary Short. In 2023, she launched Starlight Pictures, a film, television, digital and streaming production company that houses all of her heart-born projects.

An enthusiastic student of life, Sharee has an MA in media communications from Webster University as well as a BA in communication with a film studies certificate from St. Louis University. She currently lives with her husband aka high school sweetheart in Los Angeles, California.