For Julia Griggs, receiving a proclamation from the City of Memphis was a moment she never saw coming.
The Memphis native, a veteran journalist, award-winning filmmaker and founder of independent film studio Kingdom Stride Productions, has spent much of her career shining a light on the stories of others. Now, the city that helped shape her story is recognizing her impact.
Memphis Mayor Paul Young issued an official proclamation last month honoring Griggs for her commitment to truthful and impactful storytelling, highlighting her documentary “Brannu: The Urban Horseman,” and recognizing her work to preserve culture, uplift underrepresented voices and inspire the next generation of journalists and filmmakers. The proclamation also recognizes Griggs for bringing distinction to Memphis and exemplifying the positive influence dedicated storytellers can have on their communities.
“I was truly shocked,” Griggs said. “Receiving a proclamation from the City of Memphis is deeply meaningful to me, especially as a daughter of Memphis who grew up in North Memphis. This recognition feels truly special, and I’m grateful to the mayor for acknowledging my work in this way.”
Griggs’ path to national newsrooms and award-winning filmmaking began in Memphis. Before building a career in journalism and media production, she worked as a flight attendant. But determined to create a new future for herself, Griggs returned to school and earned a degree from the University of Memphis. While still working in the airline industry, she spent her days off gaining experience in media, which eventually led to opportunities with major national news outlets, including CNN, where she established herself as a respected producer and storyteller.
The proclamation serves as recognition for years of perseverance and purpose, said Griggs, who now lives in Atlanta.
“It reflects the work, dedication and passion I have poured into my career,” said Griggs, who thanked Mayor Paul Young on her LinkedIn page. “It inspires me to continue making a positive impact through my work.”
Grigg’s latest project, “Brannu: The Urban Horseman,” an award-winning documentary, explores Black horsemanship, land ownership, displacement and community resilience through the story of Brandon “Brannu” Fulton, an Atlanta-based horse stunt rider. The project was recently screened in Memphis.
“This honor represents years of hard work. Much of it done quietly, without recognition, but always with purpose,” Griggs said. “’Brannu: The Urban Horseman’ shifted the trajectory of my career. It deepened my perspective as a producer and reaffirmed my passion for telling impactful stories.”
Throughout her career, Griggs has remained committed to amplifying voices and perspectives that are often overlooked. As a Black journalist and filmmaker, she acknowledges the journey has sometimes been hard.
“I’ve faced my share of challenges in this industry — moments that tested not only my work, but also my purpose,” she said. “Through faith and prayer, I’ve been able to overcome those obstacles and continue pushing forward in a field where representation matters deeply.”
That commitment to authentic storytelling continues to guide her work today. Whether producing national news coverage or creating independent films, Griggs says her personal mission to tell stories that matter remains unchanged.
“What I’m most proud of is the opportunity to bring impactful voices to national news coverage,” she said. “I’m also proud of the creative growth I’ve experienced as a filmmaker and the relationships I’ve built with other storytellers.”
As she looks toward the future, Griggs hopes her journey will inspire others, especially young people in Memphis, to dream beyond the limitations of circumstance or condition.
“I hope my work can inspire people to believe beyond their zip code,” she said. “Do the work. The work is what opens doors.”
Her message is one grounded in faith and preparation. And while this latest honor celebrates what she has already accomplished, Griggs says she remains focused on what comes next.
She recently helped co-produce the short film “Back To You” in collaboration with Sheila B Productions, an independent film and media company. The Black cowboy love story will premiere July 25 at NCG Cinema in Stone Mountain, Georgia, with another screening slated for Aug. 8 at Georgia Gwinnett College, about 30 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta.
“As I continue moving forward,” said Griggs, “I’m focused on giving my best in whatever God has for me next and staying open to the opportunities ahead.”
Based on reporting by Tri-State Defender.
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