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Power to the Pen
Friday July 17, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
The Narrative is a creative storytelling collective dedicated to advancing Black liberation, multicultural storytelling, and the transformative power of authentic narratives. Operating under Break Box Thought Collective and supported by Break Box Thought Studios, The Narrative creates opportunities for filmmakers, writers, artists, and cultural storytellers to develop their craft, share their experiences, and build meaningful connections through creative collaboration.

We believe stories have the power to challenge assumptions, preserve history, inspire change, and strengthen communities. Through workshops, screenings, discussions, mentorship, and creative projects, The Narrative provides a space where emerging and established creators can explore stories rooted in identity, culture, resilience, joy, and collective imagination.

While grounded in the traditions and ongoing pursuit of Black liberation, The Narrative welcomes diverse voices and perspectives from across multicultural communities. We are committed to fostering an environment where underrepresented stories are valued, creative risks are encouraged, and artists are empowered to tell stories that reflect the complexity, beauty, and humanity of the communities they represent.

Alongside fellow initiative Write Good, The Narrative serves as a home for creators who believe storytelling is more than entertainment—it is a tool for education, cultural preservation, community building, and envisioning a more just and connected future.
  • The Vibe: This is where we find our people, get confident in our writing and really trust ourselves as  writers. Our work, our voice, and our vision will be honored and held sacred.
  • What's in it for you? You'll get sharp readers, gentle pushes to hit your writing goals, dope activities to refine your creative process, constructive feedback, support, editing, and real talk on how to land an agent, editor, or publisher.
  • How we get down: We'll be "body doubling" (writing together), holding strategy sessions, leveling up our craft, and having honest conversations about the reality of being a working writer today.
  • The Crew: Brought to you by The Liberation Lab and Ashe Magazine, plus some special guests dropping gems throughout the series.



Speakers
avatar for Aaron Frisby

Aaron Frisby

Aaron Frisby is a filmmaker, director of photography, writer, and commercial director based in California. At 33 years old, he has spent the last eight years crafting visually compelling stories that bridge the worlds of narrative filmmaking and branded content.

Driven by a passion for authentic Black storytelling, Aaron’s work explores identity, family, resilience, community, and the often-overlooked experiences of Black Americans. His films seek to create space for nuanced characters and conversations while challenging audiences to engage... Read More →
avatar for Jamillah Hasan Oliver

Jamillah Hasan Oliver

Jamillah Hasan Oliver is the visionary Founder, CEO, and Chief Consultant of BreakBox Thought Collective, an innovative hub where art, culture, and healing intersect to reimagine community well being. A social entrepreneur, program designer, cultural strategist, and thought leader... Read More →
Exhibitors
avatar for Varselles “Var”  Cummings

Varselles “Var” Cummings

Varselles L. Cummings is a Black queer leader, storyteller, and cultural architect committed to building spaces of belonging in Fresno and beyond. As Senior Director of the Student Success and Belonging Center at Fresno State, he advances student success through culturally grounded... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
BreakBox Thought Collective 1721 Van Ness Ave Fresno, Ca 93721

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