Ava DuVernay's Biography

Ava DuVernay is a trailblazing American filmmaker, director, producer, and screenwriter, best known for her work on acclaimed films such as 'Selma', '13th', and 'A Wrinkle in Time'. Born on August 24, 1972, in Long Beach, California, DuVernay has made history as the first Black woman to be nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Director and the first Black female director to have a film nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture. Originally starting her career in film publicity, DuVernay transitioned to directing in her early thirties and quickly gained recognition for her unique storytelling style and commitment to social justice. Through her company ARRAY Filmworks, she champions the distribution of films by women and people of color. With a net worth estimated at $65 million as of 2024, DuVernay continues to inspire with her advocacy for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. Her Emmy-winning documentary '13th' sparked important conversations about race, incarceration, and systemic inequality. A proud UCLA alumna, DuVernay is celebrated not only for her cinematic achievements but also for her dedication to uplifting marginalized voices in the film industry. She remains an influential figure in contemporary American cinema, combining artistry with activism to create impactful, thought-provoking work.