photo by steed media service

Sales/Marketing, Clarendon Entertainment

When William Tolbert recently graduated from Mercy College (Dobbs Ferry, NY Campus) with a degree in film production and a minor in business marketing, he knew two things for sure: he was going to start a publishing company with his brother, and he would be directing his own films.

Tolbert wasn't born with a silver spoon in his mouth. He knows that it takes tenacity and fervor to fulfill his purpose. While his life is in intermission, between reality and dreams, he's doing what it takes to get his foot in the film industry's door.

"I do sales and marketing for Clarendon Entertainment. It's a wonderful networking opportunity and I've made contact with a lot of important people. I've also learned what goes on behind the scenes," shares the eager salesman. Toting the first installment of Clarendon's short films for their Urban S.L.A.M. (Short Live Action Movies) unit, Tolbert offers, "This is Volume 1; I am very excited about it. The shorts are about 15-30 minutes apiece." He asserts that audiences shouldn't let the name Urban S.L.A.M. fool them; this isn't a bunch of shoot-'em-up flicks. "It's a diverse group of films - spiritual, romance, and quality movies as well," he says. "Anyone can enjoy them." As Tolbert stood on 125th Street in Harlem braving the heat, he approached passersby and in some cases, they stopped to listen and, in others reached in their pockets to support his labor. It was such a wonderful sight to see - the embracing of the efforts of our youth, which guarantees their chances of a successful future. - yvette caslin

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