Lifetime Access. Proven Strategies. Industry Experts.
Agent/Talent Manager Package Mastermind.
Subscribe to "BraveMaker Buzz" our bi-monthly E-news here!
Don't miss film screenings, workshops, community news, filmmaking stories and newsworthy production updates.
Ciarra Blackwell is the Founder of a SAG-AFTRA franchised boutique modeling and talent agency that fills the gaps in the Southwest market when casting directors, advertising agencies, production companies, etc. are looking to cast more diversity in commercial and film projects.
By focusing on inclusivity, Priority Talent Agency actively contributes to the cultural shift in the entertainment industry and answers the demand of diversity all the while taking our talent’s acting and/or modeling career to the next level.
Brian Yuran is a writer-director-producer and alumni of the prestigious Newhouse School at Syracuse University where he graduated with the Irene M. Sholkin Award in Screenwriting.
His first film, Bengal, starring Larry Hankin (Friends, Breaking Bad) premiered at the TCL Chinese Theatres in 2021 and went on to win Best Short Film Director at Venice Shorts and The Remi Award at the World-Fest Houston International Film Festival. His second film, Guardian Angel, starring Sufe Bradshaw (Veep) premiered at LA Shorts, an Oscar-qualifying event. He then went on to direct, The Stairwell, a sci-fi proof-of-concept featuring screen legend, Michael Paré (Eddie & The Cruisers, Streets Of Fire). This short garnered numerous awards including Best Drama Short at the Poppy Jasper International Film Festival. His most recent project, Steady, starring Tate Donovan (Argo, The O.C., Hercules), is currently on the 2024-2025 festival circuit and has garnered critical acclaim.
He is currently producing The Heart Brake starring Beverly D’Angelo, Brittany Curran and Joey Lawrence poised to shoot this summer in Franklin, TN.
When not on set, Brian is a talent manager at Luber Roklin Entertainment where he represents an impressive roster of clients.
Brett Takeshita is a creative who is obsessed with storytelling and prides himself in overseeing the development and production of all types of content, from Hallmark rom-coms to Tubi thrillers.
Robbie Ryde is an actor, educator, and filmmaker. Born in Melbourne Victoria, Robbie was formerly a semi professional footballer (Australian Rules Football 'AFL') and a contract carpenter. In his 'second act' he has shifted his entire focus to follow his intoxicating passion of the arts.
Today, Robbie is the visionary force behind Ryde Entertainment and our esteemed American Arts Film & Television Academy, which he is co-owner alongside his partner Jessica Orcsik. Under his leadership, this institution is fast becoming synonymous with excellence, nurturing emerging talent and fostering creativity on a global scale.
Robbie’s impact as a mentor and coach at AAFTA is undeniable.
Under Robbie’s tutelage, aspiring actors have blossomed into veritable stars, with standout performances in acclaimed projects such as “God Is A Bullet,” where Chloe Guy shared the screen with industry icons (Game of Thrones Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Jamie Foxx and January Jones) under the direction of Nick Cassavetes. Robbie’s dedication to his craft and his students success is evident in the myriad triumphs that have unfolded under his guidance.
In the past year, Robbie and AAFTA have produced a cadre of rising stars, each with a tale of triumph that speaks to their resilience and talent. Our students have graced the silver screen alongside some of the biggest names in the industry, bringing their passion and craft to life in feature films that have captivated audiences globally.
With a commitment to storytelling excellence and a passion for empowering others, Robbie Ryde continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring creatives everywhere, reminding us all that with dedication, perseverance, and a steadfast belief in one’s dreams, anything is possible.