Paying it Forward: Commercial Directing Film School Alumna Sponsors Bootcamp Student

Commercial Directing Film School is proud to announce that alumna Staci Talley has sponsored our Filmmaker Diversity Award, sending emerging filmmaker Kat Rapheal to Commercial Directing Bootcamp, which took place on December 14th in Los Angeles. Taught by acclaimed director Jordan Brady, this sold out Bootcamp included 60% female filmmakers, a milestone for diversity in the program.

“Before I discovered Commercial Directing Film School, I was feeling a bit stuck as a commercial producer,” Talley shares. “CDFS helped me take the next step into directing and diversifying my experience. By funding their diversity scholarship, I can help other women can find the same support and confidence I did. I’m so excited to see what Kat does next—she’s incredibly talented and driven.”

Rapheal expressed her gratitude for the opportunity: “Bootcamp was an incredible experience. To be in a room with filmmakers eager to grow and to learn from Jordan’s kindness, trademark humor, and straight talk was invaluable. I left with a renewed confidence and clarity on what sets me apart as a director.”

Commercial Directing Bootcamp has become a premier training ground for directors breaking into or leveling up in advertising. Participants gain hands-on tools for crafting compelling ads, navigating agency-client relationships, and mastering commercial production. Many alumni have gone on to sign with production companies and direct award-winning campaigns.

“I am humbled that a talented, working filmmaker like Staci is championing the next wave of filmmakers,” says Brady. “Kat has immense talent, we have no doubt she’ll succeed in making great spots.”

For more information, visit https://commercialdirectingfilmschool.com/