BADWest Pre to Post Monthly Workshops

Join us on Thursday, September 4, 2025 from 6:30PM - 8:00PM for , "It's Okay to Speak to Strangers": Communication and Relationship Building in the Film Industry.

Join us on Thursday, September 5, 2025 for the Pre to Post Workshop "It's Okay to Speak to Strangers": Communication and Relationship Building in the Film Industry with Adolpha Cole aka AdolphaTheGreat at Emerson College Los Angeles Center, 5960 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90028.

Whether it’s walking into a mixer, reaching out to a potential collaborator, or simply introducing yourself in a room full of strangers, the fear of not belonging or being dismissed can keep us from taking the very steps that move careers forward.

This workshop is rooted in the core belief of Candidly Speaking: meaningful conversation can build bridges, change lives, and spark opportunity because people thrive when they feel seen, heard, and respected. This session provides an honest and affirming space for participants to explore:

• Why "networking" doesn’t have to feel transactional or fake
• How to shift from small talk to real talk—even in professional settings
• Ways to read the room and find your people (even if you're the quiet one)
• Building relationships that are intentional, reciprocal, and rooted in integrity
• Navigating rejection, silence, or disinterest without internalizing it
• The subtle power of listening, curiosity, and follow-up

This is more than a “how to network” session. It’s an invitation to reframe how we connect—with others, and with our own sense of purpose.

ADOLPHA COLE

Adolpha Cole is a connector and creator who knows how to turn strangers into lifelong collaborators. She’s the founder of Candidly Speaking, an eight-year-old social impact organization on a mission to spark authentic human connection across industries and communities. With over 25 years of professional experience, she has staged unforgettable events for brands like Mercedes-Benz and Toyota, worked behind the scenes on TV and film productions, the Olympics, and worldwide tours for music legends like Mary J. Blige and Boyz II Men.

As a writer and comedian, Adolpha brings wit, warmth, and a side of truth you didn’t know you needed to every project—whether she’s penning a screenplay, lighting up a comedy stage, or helping others find the confidence to tell their own stories. Oh, and she’s also a certified Reiki Master, so expect good energy—literally.

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Thursday, September 4, 2025

6:30 - 8:00 pm PST

Non-members $10. Members free.

Emerson College Los Angeles Center

5960 West Sunset Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90028

Free underground parking (first come-first serve)

Plenty of street parking available on the side streets

Everyone must Register or RSVP by Wednesday, September 3, 2025 by 5pm.

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Join BADWest for $45, and reap all the benefits of being a member, including free monthly meetings, screenings and other special events.

Membership in the Black Association of Documentary Filmmakers West is open to people of African descent working in documentary film, video or other media. While BAD Filmmakers West is a Southern California based organization, focusing primarily on the issues and concerns relevant to Southern California documentary filmmakers, there is no geographical limitation on membership. Members are encouraged to participate by lending their experience and sharing opinions.

Standard Membership $45

Group Membership (4-5) $200

Business Membership (6-10) $350

Corporate Membership $500

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Emerson College Los Angeles Center, 5960 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, United States