St. Petersburg, FL — January 2026 — As the Sunshine City Film Festival marks its 10th anniversary, one of its most meaningful and anticipated events returns with renewed purpose: the L.I.F.E. (Ladies in Film & Entertainment) Celebration.
Hosted at the iconic Salvador Dalí Museum on Friday, January 16th, the L.I.F.E. Celebration honors women whose creativity, leadership, and dedication continue to shape film, television, media, and the arts. Over the years, L.I.F.E. has grown into a defining pillar of the festival—serving as both a moment of recognition and a broader commitment to visibility, equity, and legacy.
2026 L.I.F.E. HONOREES
This year’s honorees represent a powerful cross-section of talent and impact across entertainment and
media:
- Saundra Weathers — TV / News Reporter & Anchor
- Diana Durango — Actress / Producer
- Tessla Elizabeth — Actress / Model
- Andresia Moseley — Actress
- Jenna Jane — Actress / Producer
- Brianna Borello — Actress
- Janesia Shanae — Actress
- Melissa Lizette Merritt — Producer / Production Assistant
Together, these women exemplify excellence, perseverance, and service—each contributing uniquely to the cultural and creative landscape.
A NIGHT OF RECOGNITION, REUNION, AND LEGACY
In honor of the festival’s 10th anniversary, the 2026 L.I.F.E. Celebration will also feature a special reunion of past L.I.F.E. honorees, many of whom will be in attendance. This gathering underscores the enduring community built through the program and highlights the long-term impact of recognizing women who lead, uplift, and create lasting change within the industry.
Set against the inspiring backdrop of the Dalí Museum, the evening blends elegance with intention—bringing together honorees, alumni, filmmakers, and community leaders for meaningful connection and reflection.
SCFFX: A WEEK-LONG CELEBRATION OF STORYTELLING
The L.I.F.E. Celebration is part of SCFFX, the Sunshine City Film Festival’s six-day 10th Anniversary
experience, taking place January 14–19, 2026, and transforming St. Petersburg into a hub for independent cinema and creative exchange.
Festival highlights include:
Opening Night Kickoff Party — Wednesday, January 14 | Greenlight Cinema Lounge Kitchen
A celebratory launch bringing filmmakers, artists, and supporters together to open the anniversary festival week.
Surreal Cinema Night — Thursday, January 15 | The Dalí Museum
An evening of visually bold and thought-provoking films, including The Ethereal: The God Particle and episodes of Simi, showcasing visionary storytelling from award-winning creators.
Past L.I.F.E. awardees
SCFFX Movie Night at the Beach Theatre — Saturday, January 17
A comprehensive showcase featuring Indie Shorts, Student Films, International Films, Documentaries, Music Videos, and Made-in-the-Bay selections.
Filmmakers Tour & Networking Mixer — Sunday, January 18
An immersive experience connecting filmmakers with regional film commissions and creative spaces. RSVP required; space is limited.
Final Festival Movies, Music Videos, Awards & Closing Celebration — Monday, January 19 (MLK Day)| Greenlight Cinema Lounge Kitchen
Past SCFF attendees, awardees, and team members
A culminating night of the final showcase of highlighted festival films made in the Bay Area, and flowing into the festival awards honoring outstanding films, performances, and creative achievement, closing the festival with purpose and recognition.
TEN YEARS OF COMMUNITY, CULTURE, AND CINEMA
Founded in St. Petersburg, the Sunshine City Film Festival has grown into an internationally recognized platform rooted in community, diversity, and independent storytelling. Its 10th anniversary marks not only a milestone but a reaffirmation of its mission to elevate voices and foster meaningful cultural impact.
Past SCFF attendees, awardees, and team members
At the heart of that mission stands L.I.F.E.—honoring women in film and entertainment not as a moment, but as an ongoing commitment.
The Sunshine City Film Festival is grateful to be sponsored by: The City of St.Petersburg, The Dali Museum, St. Pete/Clearwater Film Commission, Film Tampa Bay, Green Light Cinema, The Beach Theatre, Pinellas Diaspora Arts Project, The Tampa Bay Actors Guild, Dreammakerz Productions, DYG Art 4 for the Soul.
Tickets, full schedule details, and press credentials are available at SunshineCityFilmFestival.com.
Past SCFF attendees, awardees, and team members
Past SCFF attendees, awardees, and team members
Past SCFF attendees, awardees, and team members
