Wells Fargo was one of the sponsors of the 21st annual Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival (MVAAFF).
The effort is part of Wells Fargo’s broader commitment to advancing equity and celebrating the contributions of the African American community in Massachusetts and across the country.
The nine-day event August 4 – 12, 2023, showcased the work of independent and established African American filmmakers and promoted emerging features, documentaries, and short films from across the world. Wells Fargo leaders joined MVAAFF officials to build relationships, promote dialogue, and celebrate Black history, art, and culture. The company hosted three programs, including the welcome reception, the opening reception at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum, and the Men’s C-Suite Luncheon and “Bond of Brotherhood” panel discussion moderated by Harlem’s Rev. Al Sharpton, that explored roadblocks and triumphs of Black men reaching the C-Suite in corporate America and the responsibility to mentor and cultivate future leaders in large corporations and nonprofits. Panelists included Otis Rolley, Head of Philanthropy and Community Impact, Wells Fargo; Dexter King, Senior Vice President, GM International & Global Strategy, Tom Ford Beauty; Aeneas Williams, NFL Hall of Famer; and William Moore, Fund II Foundation Executive. The luncheon commenced with an introduction of Floyd A.B. Rance, co-founder of MVAAFF, by Mike Muse, GMA Entertainment Correspondent.
“We are thrilled to be part of the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival celebrating Black excellence and supporting the work of these talented artists and filmmakers,” said Otis Rolley, head of Philanthropy and Community Impact at Wells Fargo. “As the Bank of Doing, we recognize the importance of amplifying stories in a thoughtful and meaningful way for the community. That’s why Wells Fargo is a proud supporter of the incredible work that MVAFF does to recognize and elevate Black voices, stories, and contributions through filmmaking.”
“Stephanie and I are extremely excited to partner with Wells Fargo this year,” said Floyd Rance, co-founder of the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival. “To have them host our Welcome Reception, along with two additional festival events, is an honor as it reflects their commitment to elevating Black artists and storytellers. In our 21st year, we are beyond grateful for their support and look forward now and in the future, to this valuable collaboration and shared success.”
Wells Fargo’s philanthropic mission is to support historically underserved communities and address community issues such as financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. In 2022, the company awarded roughly $3.1 million to support local nonprofits and community organizations throughout Massachusetts. Beyond philanthropy, Wells Fargo employees in Massachusetts volunteered more than 1,850 hours in 2022 to support nonprofits and causes important to them.
Photo credit: 1.) Moderated by the Rev. Al Sharpton, Otis Rolley, Dexter King, Aeneas Williams, William Moore, Floyd A.B. Rance, Mike Muse. (Photo credit: Adrian Bernard Photograph). 2-4).
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