-
MIRTA DESIR RECEIVES GRAND PRIZE AT DIRECTORS GUILD OF AMERICA STUDENT FILM AWARDS
The Directors Guild of America awarded Mirta Desir the 2024–25 DGA Grand Prize Award for Best African American Student Filmmaker on the East Coast for her short film Jean & I. The honor recognizes outstanding achievement in student filmmaking and places Mirta among a select group of emerging voices recognized by the Guild.
The DGA Student Film Awards are regarded as one of the most competitive and respected honors for student filmmakers in the United States. Over the past 30 years, the program has served as a launchpad for many acclaimed directors, including Jon Chu, Rashaad Ernesto Green, Ryan Coogler, Nicole Kassell, and Sylvain White. Winners are selected by industry professionals and recognized for work that demonstrates artistic clarity, strong storytelling, and a distinct creative voice.
Jean & I is a character-driven short film that explores themes of connection, identity, and emotional intimacy. The film’s recognition by the DGA reflects both its craft and its emotional resonance, distinguishing it within a national field of student work and highlighting Mirta’s thoughtful approach to storytelling.
The award also reflects the foundation and mentorship Mirta received through the Feirstein Graduate School of Cinema, where the film was developed. The program is known for supporting bold creative voices and providing students with professional-level training and access to industry resources.
Receiving the DGA Grand Prize Award marks a significant milestone in Mirta’s creative journey. The recognition affirms her work at a pivotal moment and underscores her continued presence within conversations around emerging talent and meaningful storytelling.
