To be presented annually at the Southern Documentary Convening, the Southern Documentary Fund Southern Lens Award honors documentary makers and supporters for their significant achievements and dedication to amplifying stories from the American South.

This award celebrates those who create, promote, and champion authentic Southern narratives—recognizing the important role they play in shaping a more inclusive, complex, and truthful understanding of the region. Whether through filmmaking, advocacy, mentorship, or community engagement, recipients of the Southern Lens Award are dedicated to uplifting the voices of Southern storytellers and ensuring their work reaches broader audiences.

This year, SDF is proud to honor Darcy McKinnon with the Southern Lens Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to documentary storytelling and her continued commitment to supporting filmmakers and meaningful nonfiction work. Through her dedication to collaboration, mentorship, and impactful storytelling, Darcy has helped foster a stronger and more connected documentary community—uplifting stories that inspire dialogue, understanding, and change across the South and beyond.