Hazel Joyner-Smith

A North Carolina native, Joyner-Smith received her undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education from Winston Salem State University and her Master’s in Educational Administration from North Carolina A&T State University. An education advocate, Hazel served assistant director and, later, program director of the Race Relations Institute at Fisk University. In 2006, Joyner- Smith established the International Black Film Festival of Nashville, an annual showcase and bringing together of communities to showcase their work as budding, emerging and skilled independent filmmakers, actors, producers, directors and other film industry professionals. Celebrating its 9th year, the IBFFN continues to provide a positive and stable foundation for independent and urban arts.