ABOUT ANDRENE
Andrene M. Taylor, Ph.D. is a scholar, writer, educator, producer, and visual storyteller. She specializes in Black visual culture, creativity/transformational creativity, and adapting Black women’s literature for the big and small screens. She has a profound understanding of the role media can play in disrupting systemic racial inequities and transforming stories. Whether it is in the classroom on a production set, Dr. Taylor focuses on using visual stories to advance racial inclusivity and liberation for all Black people.
In 2012, Dr. Taylor founded Zuri Productions, a visual storytelling agency that turns complex issues into compelling content that demands action for corporations, communities, and causes. Zuri Productions executed media projects for Mastercard Foundation, Ashoka, PBS, and local government agencies. Her productions have a proven track record of increasing audience engagement, raising awareness for causes, and improving impact across all metrics. Dr. Taylor leads the Kipaji Lab (the Lab). Funded by Mastercard, the Kipaji Lab is a creative transformational learning personal and professional development program for early career filmmakers.
Dr. Taylor earned her doctorate from Howard University. Dr. Taylor has taught at American University, Howard University, Montgomery College, Northern Virginia Community College, and California State University, Fullerton. Dr. Taylor is a dedicated runner, skilled swimmer, and globetrotter. Dr. Taylor is most proud of her devotion to her Buddhist practice. She is a card-carrying member of Soka-Gakki International- USA and a committed practitioner of Nichiren Buddhism. She believes everyone has the potential to achieve absolute happiness.
I’m up to decolonizing Black visual storytelling. I am expanding the storytelling universe by working with BIPOC filmmakers and creatives. The projects produced and underway focus on telling compelling stories that unlock the imagination.
What am I up to?
The Kipaji Lab (the Lab)
Africa
Agulu
Kikulacho
Joseph and the Coffee Farm
Creativity
The Artists’ Table
Black in Space
Georgetown French Market
Impact
Debbie’s Story
COVID-19 Youth Campaign
Black Men’s Health Initiative
Telling Great Stories!
Powering the People
Basketball Country
Women: The Future of Africa
