About Us
What We Are
We are a coalition of filmmakers and creative workers committed to expanding opportunity for Black, Indigenous, and other filmmakers of color across Kentucky. Through labs, peer circles, and hands-on productions, we cultivate skills, collaboration, and community—on set and beyond it. Our programs connect emerging and established artists, foster mentorship, and build industry pathways that start here at home. The Association’s work extends beyond film sets: members prepare meals through Love The Hungry and we partner with schools, through the Academies of Louisville (JCPS), to introduce students to cinematography, producing, acting, editing, and more—opening doors to the industry right at home.
Who We Are
Nathaniel R.A. Spencer – Founder/ Executive Director
Nathaniel is a Louisville KY native, filmmaker—producer, director, actor, and writer—dedicated to building a thriving ecosystem where Black, Indigenous, and other filmmakers of color in Kentucky can create, learn, and work together. As founder and executive officer of the Kentucky BIPOCU Filmmakers Association, he organizes peer-support circles and community-building events.
Nathaniel has served on the board of advisors for the Louisville Film Commission, sits on the board of Louisville Visual Art, and is co-founder and board secretary of the non-profit 502 Film Collective. He is also founder and CEO of both the Kentucky BIPOCU Filmmakers Association and WeCU Productions LLC, an independent film and television production company. Under his leadership, the Association builds pipelines and showcases across the Commonwealth—from student partnerships to curate programs—elevating the voices and stories of Kentucky filmmakers.
Janis Miller – President
Janis Miller, from Louisville KY, graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education from Kentucky State University. She is a former Jefferson County Public School Health & PE teacher and continues to serve as a substitute teacher. As a professional Performing Artist with a 55-year career span, she has had a respectable career as a teacher, qualified to assess, guide and advise youth and young adults while imparting life skills necessary to help them become well rounded citizens, ready to fulfill their dreams of a career as Performing Artist. She has a passion to share her knowledge and give hope to our youth.
She is the owner of Jantastic Productions, which specializes in Creative Content, Consulting & Development, Marketing, Public Relations Liaison, Video/Audio Production, Promotions, Special Events and Proposal Writing. Her service to the communities of Louisville Ky has been shown through her volunteerism for the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage, WAVE3 Editorial Board, the Louisville Arts Council and the Eliza Tevis Society. Janis’s personal mission is to share her knowledge while achieving her purpose.
Kofi Darku – Vice President
Kofi is a caring and dedicated leader with years of experience leading the arts education and workforce development services provided to employees and students from different cultural backgrounds. Proven ability of building partnerships offering administration services that aid others through fluctuations in the ever-evolving job market. Adept expertise in streamlining workflow, delegating assignments, and making sure organizations are aligned to sustain service.
He has worked as Director of Workforce Development for the Morales Group & Director of Statewide Outreach and Leadership for Early Learning Center, Indianapolis Ind, Director of Early Care & Education for Metro United Way, Louisville KY, and is a BMe Community Genius Fellow. Kofi is well prepared to serve as a trusted authority with the expertise needed to advocate and promote KBFA’s mission and goals.
Maria Villares – Secretary
Maria is an artist and designer based in Louisville, KY, originally from Columbus, OH. She earned her BFA in Sculpture from Ohio State University, where she honed her craft and developed a multidisciplinary approach. Her work, shaped by a deep interest in ancestry and personal history, explores universal human experiences through mediums including video, sound, terra cotta, wood, metal, and fiber. Blending her artistic vision with a background influenced by STEM, she creates multi-sensory installations that combine technical problem-solving with storytelling, expanding empathy and perspective.
She currently serves as the Manager of Marketing & Development for Fund for the Arts, Louisville Ky
Devin Bundrent – Treasurer
Devin is a Louisville native, attended DuPont Manual High School and the University of Louisville (L1C4!), where he majored in Finance and French. He is a Talent agent at Heyman Talent Agency, Louisville KY, specializing in film and television. He has booked talent throughout the United States and in Canada as well. He is an aspiring writer and coder and is a strong media and communication professional.
Devin is passionate about the arts, storytelling, and creating space. He has served on the boards of many local arts organizations and has extensive years of experience and history of working in the entertainment industry.