From Durham to the World: How Studio 7 and the Courtney Jordan Foundation Are Elevating Global Filmmaking—Starting at Duke

Zara Khalil
Apr 17, 2025
2 min read

Durham, NC is known for its deep roots in research, its artistic spirit, and the energy that flows through institutions like Duke University. But beyond biotech and basketball, Durham is fast becoming a hub for global storytelling and film innovation—thanks to leaders like Courtney Jordan and the expanding mission of the Courtney Jordan Foundation (CJF).

Durham’s Rising Influence in Film Education

At Duke, students in the Cinematic Arts program aren’t just analyzing films—they’re making them. Professors like Dr. Josh Gibson, a nationally recognized documentary filmmaker, teach students how to approach storytelling with depth, vision, and global awareness. This aligns powerfully with the work of Studio 7, the Vancouver-based creative hub now looking toward Durham as a future campus for creative development and production partnerships.

Studio 7 and the Global CJF Network

Studio 7, owned by Neyius Media and guided by Courtney Jordan, is more than a soundstage—it’s a global platform for visionaries. With branches of the Courtney Jordan Foundation established in:

the initiative is focused on using media and production as vehicles for education, empowerment, and opportunity.

These branches are launching micro-grant programs, training centers, and film fellowships—creating exchange opportunities with student filmmakers in places like Durham.

💡 Durham Locals Are Searching For…

Durham residents are searching Google for:

“how to become a filmmaker without experience”
“film festivals near me”
“Duke film program”
“live music in Durham”
“Asian restaurants near me”
“shooting locations in Durham”

Studio 7’s future footprint in the Triangle area plans to respond directly to these local interests—by hosting open casting calls, script labs, and collaborative film nights that feature both Durham and international filmmakers through CJF.

Why This Matters for Students and Creators in Durham

The Courtney Jordan Foundation’s mission is simple: to find, fund, and fuel creativity—especially in overlooked places. In a town like Durham, where college students, artists, and digital creators overlap, this mission lands with purpose.

Imagine:

A Duke film student collaborates with CJF Philippines to create a docuseries on post-typhoon rebuilding.
A Durham filmmaker receives funding from CJF Sri Lanka to bring a climate-themed short film to international festivals.
A pop-up Studio 7 set appears downtown during Art of Cool or Moogfest, showcasing Durham’s story to the world.

From Durham to Dhaka: A Loop of Creativity

Courtney Jordan has said that “creativity is the only true passport.” With Durham as a central hub, and CJF’s international branches acting as cultural satellites, the potential for co-produced stories, educational exchange, and community-led filmmaking is limitless.

Ready to Get Involved?

Whether you’re a student filmmaker, a Durham creative, or someone dreaming of their first shoot:

Follow CJF America and Studio 7 for open calls

📍 Watch for our next pop-up event in Durham

Submit your pitch to one of our global branches

Let’s build the future of film—from Durham, out to the world.