Festival Jury

Dynamic and results-oriented professional with a master's degree in Interpersonal Communication and extensive experience in event production, matchmaking, and business development. With a strong foundation in communication principles, I excel in guiding individuals toward personal growth and successful relationships. I have a proven track record of founding and leading a popular singles club, orchestrating high-profile events, and building relationships with influential clients. My experience also includes supporting the arts in Northwest Arkansas through local film fundraising events and ideating and beginning to execute upon a dating reality TV show concept, demonstrating my creativity and ability to bring innovative ideas to life. Eager to contribute my expertise in event production and relationship management to a forward-thinking creative environment, I aim to deliver impactful results and enhance collaboration between filmmakers, clients, and audiences.

Scott “Kindo” Kindrick was born and raised in Morrilton, Arkansas, where a supportive community in a rural setting nurtured his early interest in the arts, including painting lessons during childhood. He later earned a degree in business from the University of Arkansas and went on to build a successful financial services career in Minneapolis.

While acting had always been a dream, Kindo didn’t begin pursuing it until the age of 60. He began training with Bob Krakower in New York City in 2019 and has since appeared in a range of national commercials—including standout spots for Naadam and Coke Zero’s football campaign—as well as numerous independent films, music videos, and television programs. His on-screen credits include Evil Lives Here and the feature-length film Voices Carry, which premiered at the San Jose Film Festival. Kindo also served as executive producer on the project.

Now based in Los Angeles, Kindo has fully committed himself to the craft of acting, bringing a lifetime of experience and a unique perspective to every role. Though he lives in LA and Minneapolis, his heart remains in Northwest Arkansas, where he is a frequent visitor. He’s honored to be part of the RSFF.

Leila Djansi, recipient of the 2009 BAFTA/LA award, is an accomplished filmmaker who began her career at 19. Her directorial debut, I Sing of a Well, earned 11 African Academy Award nominations, winning Best Film. She followed with Ties That Bind (Black Reel Awards nominee), starring Kimberly Elise (Confirmation, John Q).

Her film Like Cotton Twines, exploring modern-day slavery, won Best Narrative Feature at the 2016 Savannah and 2017 Riverbend Film Festivals. Other works include Where Children Play (starring Macy Gray), Sinking Sands (UNiFEM advocacy film), and 40 and Single (LA Film Festival winner, later on AMC’s Urban Movie Channel).

Recognized internationally for using film to highlight women’s issues, Djansi creates stories for and about women while championing diversity on and off screen.

Kelsey Ferguson is a Northwest Arkansas native, short documentary producer and lover of film. For over 20 years, she’s called this area her home and loves to engage in the arts, culture, and outdoor community. Her breakout short documentary film, Well Worn Life - filmed and directed by Fayetteville media house Blk Elk - ran the film festival circuit from Arkansas to Mountainfilm and the Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival. Previously, she was a screener and juror for Filmland: Arkansas and Bentonville Film Festival.