Mekdese Haile is a first generation, Ethiopian American filmmaker on a mission to share joy, interrupt shame, & alleviate mental health stigmas through storytelling.
Her work is shaped by the immersion of her cultures, studies, and life experiences growing up in Houston, Texas. Inspired by dramatic narratives and experimental documentaries that explore the complexity of identity, trauma, and hope, Mekdese aims to display beautifully vulnerable characters that provoke a socially interactive response.
Challenged by the lack of media representation, Mekdese co-founded MNC Movie Club—a non-profit organization that amplifies Black stories and creates meaningful experiences that affirm, celebrate, and advocate for Black existence.
She is a Class of 2024 AFI Conservatory Producing Fellow.
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Organization that celebrates Black people in front and behind the camera.
Curates movie experiences and playlists.
Created and updates film database of Black stories and filmmakers 1990-present.
Moderated conversations with Barry Jenkins and Preston Whitmore.
MNC Movie Club was featured in the Houston Chronicle.
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Produced 6 Narrative Short Films overseeing development and production with budgets ranging from $8,000-$50,000.
Worked as a UPM and Production Coordinator on 3 Narrative Short Films.
Wrote 3 short narrative screenplays and 1 feature narrative screenplay.
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Supported team in operation logistics by setting up organized systems and templates for workflow and scheduling.
Provided guidance to volunteers to ensure volunteers understand responsibilities.
Hosted film screenings and moderated panels with filmmakers.