Program Returns in September to Support Emerging Black LGBTQ Creatives
The deadline to apply to the 2025 Black Queer Creative Summit, a fully-funded professional development program from GLAAD is approaching and the event will be returning to Los Angeles this September to support and elevate emerging Black LGBTQ creatives in entertainment.
Hosted by GLAAD’s Communities of Color and Media Department, the summit offers mentorship, immersive workshops, and industry networking across five key fields: executives, content creators, behind-the-scenes professionals, on-screen talent, and music supervision. Applications are open now through May 23, 2025, with selected participants to be notified in July.
Launched in 2023, the summit has quickly become a cornerstone of GLAAD’s efforts to cultivate visibility and leadership within Black LGBTQ communities. Last year’s event drew over 150 attendees and featured appearances from more than 60 prominent figures in media and entertainment, including Kalen Allen, Tre’vell Anderson, Michelle Buteau, Jordan E. Cooper, Angelica Ross, and Kendrick Sampson.
“I’m beyond excited for the return of the Black Queer Creative Summit,” said DaShawn Usher, GLAAD’s Senior Director of Communities of Color and Media. “At a time when our intersecting communities continue to face increased scrutiny and marginalization, this summit offers vital space for collaboration, creativity, and empowerment.”
Participants will engage in a range of career-shaping opportunities, including keynote discussions, peer networking, and sector-specific breakout sessions, all led by leading professionals in film, television, music, and media advocacy.
For this year’s cohort, up to 60 scholarships will be awarded to selected applicants, covering lodging, meals, and travel stipends. Applicants not receiving a scholarship will still have the option to participate by paying a $1,500 conference fee, which includes the same accommodations and ground transportation for off-site programming. Airfare is not included.
To be considered for a scholarship, applicants must indicate their interest within the application and respond to a brief written prompt.
GLAAD is seeking applicants who identify as Black LGBTQ individuals with demonstrated experience or interest in the following sectors:
- Executives: Producers, showrunners, publicists, agents
- Creators: Filmmakers, writers, photographers, directors, animators
- Behind-the-Scenes Professionals: Hair, makeup, wardrobe, and styling experts
- On-Screen Talent: Actors, media influencers, personalities
- Music Supervision: Artists, composers, songwriters, music editors
Full program details and the application form are available at: glaad.org/bqcs/2025-applications
