Screening + Q&A: 2025–2026 BDC Films Fellows

Celebrate the work of emerging voices at a special screening of short documentaries by the 2025–2026 BDC Films Fellows. Join us for an evening of films created by this talented cohort. A Q&A with the filmmakers will follow the screening.

The BDC Films Fellowship is a free, year-long program designed by the BDC to support traditionally underrepresented documentary filmmakers.

Featuring works by:
• Natalie Setoute — The Street Librarian
• Aman Shahzad — Good Fellas Pisteria
• Ariel Portillo — Sergio
• Carolina Herrera — El Nido
• Miguel Fernandez — CoolMarx

BDC Films is run by BDC Films Fellowship Manager Shweta Gulati and Assistant Daniela Amézquita. Learn more about the program here.

Carolina Herrera — El Nido

Carolina Herrera is a multimedia visual storyteller based in New York City. Born in Buenos Aires to Peruvian parents, she focuses on migration, identity, and family history. Through a documentary lens, she weaves the personal with the political, often centering Latino communities with an emphasis on children. Optimistic and deeply engaged, Herrera embraces the human complexity behind every story — including her own. IG: @caherrera

Ariel Portillo — Sergio

Ariel Portillo is a dedicated storyteller with a strong foundation in graphic design, audio, and video production. They have completed formal coursework in graphic design and gained hands-on experience as an intern in an audio and video production class. Now working professionally as a media producer, Ariel continues to grow their skills while creating meaningful, high-quality content. Known for a collaborative spirit and a passion for helping others, they thrive in team environments where creativity and learning go hand in hand. With a deep interest in storytelling and visual communication, Ariel is committed to producing media that engages its audience. IG: @blu.again

Natalie Setoute — The Street Librarian

Natalie Setoute is a filmmaker and Bronx Community College graduate exploring grassroots storytelling across documentary and visual media. With experience in post-production and a growing focus on cinematography and directing, her work is grounded in themes of care, community, and resilience. IG: @rennyskylar

Aman Shahzad — Good Fellas Pisteria

Aman Shahzad is a cinematographer and photographer born and raised in the Bronx. They have just recently graduated from Boston University, hoping to shape the world of entertainment through the lens of diverse and intentional storytelling. Aman believes that all art is created to move, to feel, and to connect with other humans — and that art is meant to foster conversations and community. IG: @am4n.sh

Miguel Fernandez — CoolMarx

Miguel Fernandez was born and raised in Los Angeles. His family comes from México. He went to college in Manhattan and currently stays in Washington Heights. He is looking forward to exploring the stories of the Bronx community with focus on communal embrace through song, dance, and festive expression. IG: @_miguel_a2f