A LITTLE MORE ABOUT ME…

My path is non-linear and non-traditional and I’m grateful for that.

I got my start in media while studying international affairs in New York City and organizing for Black Lives. Inspired by a documentary that opened my eyes to what compelling filmmaking can do and blessed with a number of Black women mentors who demystified the business for me, I became outreach, marketing and distribution director on several award-winning documentary films, Black and Cuba (2014), COMPLICIT (2017) and most recently, Rhythms of the Land (2022).

Since getting my start with documentaries, I’ve worked on several, short and feature narrative films, musical and experimental videos, docu-series, branded content and more. In 2015 I wrote a short story that became my award-winning film, BodyMore (2018) along with my writing partner, Darren Mallett.

But media isn't my only muse—cultivating artistic experiences is also a passion. I’ve curated large-scale public arts projects, intimate gallery shows and produced educational and cultural events with organizations like the Brooklyn Arts Council, AfroPunk, MoCADA, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, the Museum of Contemporary Diasporan Arts and many more.

I’ve also organized mixed-media cultural projects internationally in NYC, South Africa and Japan with 1Future a creative studio for stories of social change and innovation and with House of Ease an art collective and production house of creatives interested in sharing stories and creating experiences that reflect the sensual, spiritual aspects of existence.

My audio offerings include being a co-producer of Let’s Get Back to Queer a podcast about the mixy, magical lives of Black Queer folk and a short series of audio meditations produced independently.

I hold a BA in History and International Affairs from Smith College and a MA in International Affairs from The New School in NYC. 

I split my time between the DMV and NYC and love to travel! When I’m not on-set I’m teaching hot yoga.

Email me at shannonjoyshird@gmail.com or use the contact page with your inquiries.