Libby Hakaraia and Tazbah Rose Chavez Receive Prestigious Sundance Fellowships
The Sundance Institute has officially announced the recipients of its prestigious 2024 fellowships, dedicated to supporting Indigenous filmmakers. Libby Hakaraia has been awarded the Merata Mita Fellowship, while Tazbah Rose Chavez receives the inaugural Graton Fellowship. These awards were presented at the Native Forum Celebration during the Sundance Film Festival, highlighting the Institute's commitment to Indigenous storytelling.
Libby Hakaraia, from the Ngati Kapu and Ngati Raukawa au ki te tonga tribes, is celebrated for her extensive career in the screen industry, spanning over three decades as a director, writer, and producer. Her work has been internationally recognized, including the feature films "Cousins" (2021) and "Kōkā" (2023). Hakaraia's dedication to Indigenous storytelling also led her to establish the Maoriland Film Festival, now the largest annual Indigenous festival in the Southern Hemisphere, and a center of excellence for Māori Film and Creative Arts. In 2018, she was awarded the Women in Film and Television Entrepreneur award, and in 2023, she received a New Zealand Order of Merit for her services to media and film.
Tazbah Rose Chavez is known for her multifaceted career as a performance poet, television writer, and director, with notable contributions to shows like FX’s "Reservation Dogs" and FOX’s "Accused." A member of the Dinè, Nüümü, and San Carlos Apache tribes, Chavez's work spans directing health and cultural preservation campaigns to her celebrated poetry performances. Chavez, who also served as the co-chair of the Writers Guild of America West Native American & Indigenous Writers Committee, emphasizes the importance of California Native perspectives in cinema, underscoring the state's unique position as both the home of the film industry and a diverse array of Tribal Nations.
The Merata Mita Fellowship, named after the pioneering Māori filmmaker Merata Mita, supports Indigenous women-identified artists in directing their first feature film. It offers yearlong support, including festival attendance, strategic and creative services, a cash grant, and mentorship opportunities. The Graton Fellowship, made possible through a significant endowment from the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, aims to support Indigenous artists from California-based tribes, offering a $25,000 grant, creative mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
These fellowships not only honor the legacy of Merata Mita but also affirm the Sundance Institute's dedication to elevating Indigenous voices and stories within the global cinematic landscape. The announcement was made at the Native Forum Celebration, held on Traditional Ute Nation Territory, further emphasizing the Institute's commitment to celebrating and supporting Indigenous filmmaking talent.
