Surrounded By Water Continues To Build Through Action With A Call To Apply To The Michael K. Williams Fellowship

Building the Next Generation Through Action, Not Access Alone

Since launching the Michael K. Williams Fellowship, Surrounded By Water has remained committed to creating real-world pathways for emerging creatives, not just conversations about opportunity.

Our current fellow, Jessie Nunnoo, exemplifies what this fellowship is designed to do. During her time in the program, Jessie has worked hands-on across multiple Surrounded By Water productions, collaborating with seasoned industry professionals, including an Emmy Award–winning creative, while gaining meaningful experience in live production environments.

Most recently, Jessie was hired to handle sound on an upcoming Sports Illustrated cover shoot and also had the opportunity to work on set with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. These opportunities came directly through the mentorship, access, and relationships cultivated within the fellowship.

These moments are not exceptions, they are the standard. The Michael K. Williams Fellowship exists to move emerging talent from aspiration to execution, placing fellows in rooms, on sets, and within projects where their work truly matters.

With that foundation in place, Surrounded By Water is proud to open the next chapter of this work.

Call for Applications: Michael K. Williams Fellowship

With the blessing of the Michael K. Williams estate, Surrounded By Water is proud to announce the open call for applications to the Michael K. Williams Fellowship, a yearlong mentorship and professional development opportunity for emerging talent in film, television, and the broader entertainment industry.

Founded by Greg Cally and Tristan Mack Wilds, the fellowship honors Michael’s lifelong commitment to opening doors for voices that have historically been denied access. Both founders had the privilege of working closely with Michael on major television projects, and his mentorship and vision profoundly shaped their creative paths. Michael often spoke about wanting to be “the Berry Gordy of film”, someone who created pathways, not just opportunities. This fellowship exists to carry that mission forward.

The Michael K. Williams Fellowship is designed for driven, grounded individuals between the ages of 21 and 25 who aspire to work in film, television, or entertainment at large. Applicants do not need formal film school experience. What matters most is a commitment to storytelling, a strong creative point of view, and a genuine hunger to learn.

Fellows Will Receive:

● One-on-one mentorship from Greg Cally, Tristan Mack Wilds, and the Surrounded By Water team

● Access to real-world production environments and industry insight ● Creative support and guidance on original projects

● Paid opportunities to work as a crew member on Surrounded By Water productions

● Official film credit and résumé-building experience

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a résumé and cover letter to Fellowship@redhousevisuals.com.

All applications must be received by May 31, 2026.

This year’s fellowship will be formally introduced during Surrounded By Stories, Surrounded By Water’s signature showcase event.

Thank you for continuing to support Michael’s legacy and helping us pass the torch to the next generation of storytellers.

- SURROUNDED BY WATER