George N. Faux

a Portland-based writer, producer, and founder of George Faux Films. His creative journey began in Portland’s public library, where he immersed himself in books on character development, dialogue, and dramatic structure, shaping a self-taught foundation in storytelling. Although he did not attend Portland State University, the library became his classroom and creative sanctuary.

Faux wrote and performed his first skit for African Culture Night before expanding into larger theatrical productions at the Winningstad Theatre. His deep fascination with cinema—analyzing plot structure, character arcs, and creative choices—eventually led him to filmmaking as his primary medium.

Guided by a belief that storytelling is a calling and a form of spiritual communication, Faux creates work intended to uplift, inspire, and provoke thought. Through George Faux Films, he produces authentic narratives that honor African cultures while resonating with universal audiences.

Ime Etuk

A Nigerian-American filmmaker and the founder of Lion Speaks, a production company dedicated to empowering creators of color to tell their own stories. With over two decades of experience in the film industry, Etuk has worked alongside renowned directors such as Paul Haggis on “Crash,” the Coen Brothers on “The Man Who Wasn’t There,” Antoine Fuqua on “Training Day,” and David Lynch on “Twin Peaks.”

Etuk’s directorial debut, “Hurricane in the Rose Garden” (2008), was showcased at the Pan African and Slamdance Film Festivals before securing distribution. Through Lion Speaks, he focuses on media production that elevates narratives of underrepresented communities, providing mentorship and paid training to emerging talents in film and television.