Join Us as a Volunteer for the 2025 American Black Film Festival!
Get ready to be part of something extraordinary! Volunteering at the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), from June 11-15, 2025, in Miami Beach, FL, is about more than just lending a hand—it’s about immersing yourself in a vibrant community, creating unforgettable experiences, and celebrating Black culture, creativity, and excellence in film. Whether you’re passionate about film, eager to network with industry professionals, or simply want to be part of the action, ABFF 2025 offers you a front-row seat at one of the year’s most anticipated events. All you need is enthusiasm, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. Enjoy exclusive benefits, gain valuable experience, and forge lasting connections. Don’t miss the chance to make an impact while having the time of your life—apply now!
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: January 31st, 2025
- Interview Schedule: Interviews will be conducted on a rolling bases upon application submission for eligible candidates.
- Notification Deadline: Applicants will be notified of their acceptance into the volunteer program no later than April 1st, 2025.
Accommodations
- Lodging, Transportation, and Meals: Volunteers are responsible for arranging their own lodging, transportation, and meals during the festival.
Volunteer Requirements
- Age Requirement: Must be 21 years of age by the time of application submission.
- Arrival: Must arrive in Miami Beach, FL, on Sunday, June 2 by 12 pm for festival orientation and training.
- Availability: Must be available to work the entire festival production from June 8-15, 2025, for full-day shifts.
- Flexibility: Be open to various departmental assignments; your preferred role may not be available.
- Communication: Must have email access for receiving festival communications.
- Professional Conduct: Volunteers must maintain professionalism at all times. Distribution of scripts, resumes, business cards, photos, recordings, or social media content capture during shifts is strictly prohibited.
Volunteer Benefits
- Festival Access: Volunteers receive festival credentials, granting entry to all events (excluding master classes and private events) during non-working shifts, subject to capacity.
- Attire: Volunteers will be provided with an official festival shirt and are required to wear their own khaki or black bottoms (pants, long shorts, skirts) during shifts. Comfortable shoes are essential as shifts involve long periods of standing. For opening night, “show black” is optional, or you may follow the festival dress code.
- Meal & Parking: A lunch meal stipend and a daily parking voucher for local volunteers will be provided.
Departments & Roles
Brief description of each department responsibilities and roles:
Registration & Guest Services
Assist with checking in attendees, distributing credentials, answering questions, distribution of festival merchandise, providing information and ensuring a positive experience.
Operations & Logistics
Support the setup, execution, and breakdown of events, including activating banners and signage, ensuring smooth operations throughout the festival.
Sponsorship
Work with the team that manages sponsor relationships and activations.
Talent
Assist with coordinating talent appearances, schedules, and hospitality.
Public Relations
Help manage media relations, press inquiries, and communications.
Programming
Assist with coordinating festival schedules, panels, screenings and workshops, including audience management, technical needs, and providing logistical support.
Social Media
Assist the digital team with live coverage, content creation, and monitoring of the festival’s social media channels. This includes capturing key moments, engaging with the online audience, and ensuring that the festival’s brand and messaging are consistently represented across all platforms.
Front of House
Manage audience entry and seating at screenings and events. Responsibilities include crowd control, ticket collection, and assisting guests. This is a crucial role in maintaining the flow and atmosphere of the festival.
Come be a part of the energy, excitement, and inspiration at the 2025 American Black Film Festival—your journey starts here!