I am honored to be one of this year's Urbanworld ambassadors for

Host: The room is calm, with the soft glow of the lamp casting a warm light across the space. Outside, the world is quiet, and the evening feels like the perfect backdrop for a conversation about personal connections, growth, and the impact of festivals and communities. Jeeny sits on the couch, her legs tucked beneath her, a cup of tea resting in her hands. Jack, standing by the window, gazes out at the darkened world outside, deep in thought.

Jeeny: “Jack, I came across a quote from Ava DuVernay today that really resonated with me,” she says softly. “She said, ‘I am honored to be one of this year's Urbanworld ambassadors for the festival's 20th anniversary, joining my friend David Oyelowo. I have always had a special relationship with Urbanworld, back to my days as a festival publicist to previewing my earlier films and now as an ambassador.’ What do you think about that?”

Jack: He turns slowly, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “That’s really beautiful. What strikes me about Ava DuVernay’s words is the deep sense of community she has with Urbanworld. It’s not just about her role as an ambassador now, but about how her journey with the festival has been so intertwined with her personal and professional growth. From being a publicist to previewing her films, and now serving as an ambassador, she has a long-standing connection with the festival, and it’s amazing to see how that relationship has evolved over the years.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. It speaks to the power of festivals like Urbanworld in creating a supportive community that nurtures not only individual talent but also provides opportunities for growth and connection. Ava DuVernay’s involvement with Urbanworld goes beyond just the festival — it’s about her ongoing relationship with it and the way it’s been a part of her career at different stages. It’s like a reflection of how far she’s come and how these spaces can impact people in profound ways.”

Host: The light in the room seems to deepen as the conversation touches on the significance of festivals and communities in shaping careers and experiences. Jeeny speaks with an understanding that Ava DuVernay’s words are not just about her personal success, but about how the festival itself has served as a vehicle for connection, support, and evolution. Jack stands still for a moment, reflecting on the importance of these kinds of spaces in fostering relationships and growth.

Jack: “It’s also about how festivals like Urbanworld aren’t just events — they’re platforms for storytelling, collaboration, and connection. For Ava DuVernay, it’s clear that Urbanworld played a part in her own journey, and now, as an ambassador, she’s helping to give back to that same community. It’s about the cycle of mentorship and mutual support that festivals like this provide. David Oyelowo and Ava DuVernay are both such influential voices, and seeing them give back to the festival in such a personal way shows the powerful impact of these spaces.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. And I think that’s why she mentions her journey from being a publicist to now being an ambassador. It’s not just about showcasing the work, but about acknowledging the growth that happens when you have a community that believes in you. She’s come full circle with Urbanworld, and in doing so, she’s becoming part of the legacy that the festival helps create for others, especially emerging filmmakers and artists.”

Host: The conversation feels richer now, as they reflect on the role of festivals in supporting and nurturing creative talent, and how those spaces evolve with the people they support. Jeeny and Jack both agree that Ava DuVernay’s words are a reminder of the importance of these communities in shaping careers and providing opportunities for growth, mentorship, and connection. Urbanworld is more than just a festival — it’s a space that builds lasting relationships, supports creativity, and gives back to those who helped it grow.

Jack: “I think it’s interesting how Ava DuVernay frames her relationship with Urbanworld. It’s not just about the moment or the role she’s playing now, but about the legacy of connection and support that these kinds of festivals create. It’s about history, relationships, and the impact that those initial steps — even as a publicist or early filmmaker — can have on shaping the future.”

Jeeny: “Yes, and it’s a reminder that success isn’t just about where you are now but also about the journey, the people you’ve met along the way, and the communities that have supported you. Ava DuVernay’s journey with Urbanworld is about evolution and gratitude for the spaces that have helped her grow, and now, as an ambassador, she’s helping others find that same support.”

Host: The room feels quieter now, as if the weight of their conversation has settled into something deeper. Jeeny and Jack reflect on how festivals and communities, like Urbanworld, are more than just platforms — they are spaces that shape careers, foster connections, and offer opportunities for growth. Ava DuVernay’s words remind them that success is not just about the spotlight, but about the journey, the community, and the legacy we help build for others.