Kerra Bolton

From Ancestral Seas to Future Visions: Narratives That Drive Change

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WRITER. FILMMAKER. ENTREPRENEUR.

I’m an award-winning author and filmmaker who uses first-person narrative nonfiction to inspire others to live authentically, disrupt generational patterns, and embrace joy. I founded Woodbine Ventures, a nonprofit dedicated to creating, funding, and distributing books, documentary films, and educational projects that help Black communities heal from generational trauma and embrace Black joy.

ABOUT ME

LET’S WORK TOGETHER!

FLAGSHIP SERVICES

I connect with others through writing, film, and teaching. CNN, Hearst Magazines, Memoir Land, and Narratively are among the diverse digital platforms featuring my work. Please check out my flagship services offerings for opportunities to collaborate and inspire.

Writing &
Independent Journalism

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Film
Production

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Memoir Writing
Classes

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HOW I CAN HELP

I’m an award-winning writer and filmmaker passionate about crafting stories that spark change. With 30 years of media experience, I’m also a global networker, advocate, and bilingual communicator. I am dedicated to empowering through captivating storytelling, teaching, and public speaking. Let’s connect & make an impact!

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WHAT I’M WORKING ON NOW

Writer, filmmaker, mentor—my purpose is to leverage a dynamic blend of historical research, engagement, and storytelling, funding initiatives that educate, resonate, and heal.

PROJECTS

FROM THE PORTFOLIO

Documentary Films

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Testimonials

Writing

“Your writing is mesmerizing. So much of what you wrote in this essay (“The Water Spirits Will Carry Me”) was about breathing and being deprived of breath. I quite literally found myself holding my breath while reading this. Your skill in weaving all these histories/stories into one essay quite bedazzles me.” — Leah Baer

Teaching

“I can’t think of anyone warmer, wiser, or better equipped to lead this class (Writing With Your Ancestors: Infusing Memoir With Family History) than Kerra. If you’ve been working on a memoir project that touches on difficult family issues; if you want guidance on digging up records or interviewing those super-reluctant family members; or you just want the support to dive into your story, this class is for you.” — Brendan Spiegel, Editorial Director and Co-Founder of Narratively

Film

“This (Return of the Black Madonna trailer) was powerful. Firstly, because you are taking back what has always been yours. I just imagine our ancestors once swimming in the same waters that would later take them. Another thing that stands out is the different (racial/cultural) backgrounds of the people who assist you in your healing and how profound that is in its own way. Whew! I still have chills.” — Janel

SIGNATURE SERVICES

Writing/Editing

Writing With the Ancestors

4-6 Week Course

Join me in a supportive, creative community and learn to transform your personal, familial, and ancestral history into captivating stories that sell and inspire readers.

Memoir Writing Workshop

Three-Hour Intensive

Jumpstart your memoir with our workshop! Engage in hands-on exercises, receive personalized feedback, and advance your work in progress.

Developmental Editing

Ongoing

Struggling with your manuscript? My developmental editing services transform your rough drafts into polished gems, ensuring your story reaches its full potential.

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woodbine ventures

I believe in restoring creativity to creators rather than allowing algorithms to decide the stories we tell. That’s why I founded Woodbine Ventures, a media and educational nonprofit dedicated to inspiring people to live authentically, dismantle generational barriers, and embrace joy through innovative storytelling.

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FROM THE BLOG

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