Juliet Romeo
Juliet Romeo is an award-winning writer and director known for her signature purple hair and dedication to bold, authentic storytelling. A Brooklyn-born Trinidadian filmmaker based in South Florida, she brings her lived experiences as a disabled Caribbean woman into her work, creating narratives that explore identity, resilience, and social justice. As the founder of the Unstoppable program at the Academy-qualifying Slamdance Film Festival, she has built what filmmakers describe as a, “Utopian vision of how the film industry should be—a space where accessibility and inclusion are the standard, not the exception.” Society may not have fully caught up yet, but Unstoppable has become an undeniable force, reshaping the festival landscape and empowering disabled filmmakers worldwide. Her unwavering support of filmmakers has earned her the affectionate title “The Fairy Godmother of Filmmakers.”
Juliet’s directorial work includes Uncomplicated, a narrative short that resonated deeply with the sickle cell community and secured distribution on Delta Airlines Inflight Entertainment, as well as two PBS-aired documentaries, J.U.L.E.S and Art of Warriors, which highlight the realities of living with sickle cell disease. Her keen eye for compelling storytelling has made her a sought-after programmer and mentor for festivals such as Doc NYC, ReelAbilities, PBS Film-Maker, The Loren Arbus Grant, and the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge. She is widely recognized for her ability to spot great films and connect with filmmakers, especially those with disabilities, providing them with opportunities and support. Beyond film, Juliet serves as the board chairperson for Advancing Sickle Cell Advocacy Project, Inc., South Florida’s largest nonprofit advocating for education, policy change, and support for individuals affected by sickle cell disease. Through her filmmaking, advocacy, and industry leadership, she continues to push for a more inclusive film industry, ensuring diverse stories are not only told but celebrated.
With Gratitude,
Juliet Romeo
