Mara Brock Akil's Writers' Colony Reveals 2026 Residency Participants
Mara Brock Akil's prestigious Writers' Colony has unveiled the promising talents selected for its 2026 summer and fall screenwriting residencies. This initiative, operating from its base in Los Angeles, provides an invaluable platform for burgeoning writers to hone their skills, engage with industry experts, and cultivate essential career relationships. The program underscores a commitment to nurturing the next wave of storytellers, equipping them with the tools and insights needed to navigate and succeed in the competitive entertainment landscape.
The three-month residency, nestled in the vibrant West Adams neighborhood of Los Angeles, functions adjacent to Brock Akil’s story27 Productions. This strategic location fosters a dynamic environment where selected writers actively participate in intensive workshops. They benefit from candid discussions with seasoned entertainment professionals, gaining practical knowledge and strategic advice crucial for their professional development. The curriculum is meticulously designed to refine their writing abilities and prepare them for impactful careers in the film and television industry.
Each cohort, comprising four emerging writers, benefits from a structured program focusing on script development and professional networking. Participants engage in collaborative workshops, receive personalized feedback, and learn to effectively pitch their creative concepts. The experience is tailored to foster growth, allowing writers to explore their unique voices and build a strong foundation for future projects. This immersive approach ensures that by the end of the residency, each writer is better prepared to contribute meaningfully to the entertainment world.
The summer 2026 cohort includes Nicole Schwegman, a former U.S. Navy Commander and White House press official who recently served as a showrunner assistant on the CBS series “Watson”; Spencer Jamison, an accomplished filmmaker and a 2026 Film Independent Episodic Lab Fellow; Nagee Brown, a prolific writer and producer; and Justin Casselle, an award-winning writer-director. These diverse backgrounds bring a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives to the program, fostering a vibrant creative exchange.
For the fall 2026 session, the chosen participants are Charlie T. Savage, a Navy veteran and filmmaker; Malia Dawkins Jennings, a writer known for her work on “Iyanu: Child of Wonder” Season 2; Leland Hall, a filmmaker with a background as a former HBO executive; and Shay Ball, who transitions from a finance professional role. This blend of seasoned professionals and fresh voices highlights the Colony’s dedication to supporting a wide array of talent.
Mara Brock Akil, the visionary founder of the Writers’ Colony, emphasized the program’s core mission: “Supporting the next generation of storytellers remains at the heart of the Writers’ Colony. When writers are given the space and support to deepen their craft, extraordinary things happen. Watching each cohort grow into their voices and find their place in this industry is what drives everything we do.” Her extensive career, including acclaimed series like “Girlfriends,” “The Game,” and “Being Mary Jane,” and her current role shepherding Netflix’s “Forever,” provide a wealth of experience and mentorship for the participants.
The Writers’ Colony has a proven track record of identifying and fostering talent, with previous cohorts featuring notable names such as Duran Jones, Dorado Quick, Shahari Moore, and Sunny Dae. The 2026 spring cohort also saw promising writers like Jordan Rock, Domonic Diaz-Smith, Porscha Williams, and Corinthian Maldonado participate. This continuous cycle of mentorship and development reinforces the Colony’s commitment to shaping the future of screenwriting.
The announcement of the summer and fall cohorts represents a significant milestone for the Writers' Colony, reinforcing its mission to cultivate diverse voices within the screenwriting community. Through comprehensive workshops and invaluable industry connections, the program empowers writers to transform their creative visions into compelling narratives, ultimately enriching the landscape of television and film.
