Jessica Chaney is a dedicated storyteller and filmmaker, passionately focused on amplifying the voices of women of color and bringing the rich cultural narratives of the South to life. An Alabama native, Jessica’s work is deeply rooted in her Southern upbringing, and she has spent over a decade honing her craft as a filmmaker. She co-founded Not Your Ordinary Films in 2017, a production company that has produced a wide range of projects, including short films, web series, and her debut feature-length film, “I AM.” This documentary poignantly explores the experiences of Black women navigating Anxiety Disorders, showcasing Jessica’s commitment to telling impactful, socially relevant stories.

Jessica is an active member of the independent film community in Memphis, Tennessee, where she calls home. Her leadership extends beyond filmmaking, having also served as the Agency Manager for CLOUD901 Teen Learning Lab at Memphis Public Libraries. There, she mentored young filmmakers, developed innovative S.T.E.A.M. programs, and forged community partnerships, leaving a lasting impact on local youth. Her work in fostering creative spaces for teens has been recognized by Smithsonian Magazine and she was named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker in 2022.

Jessica holds a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Film from the University of Alabama and a Master of Business Administration from Christian Brothers University. Through her film production company, Jessica continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, aiming to inspire and empower underrepresented communities while creating meaningful connections through the art of film.