IFM is a volunteer-run organization that consists of members of the film and TV community who are passionate about advancing the film and TV industry in the state of Minnesota.
Founder
Reyna Rios-Starr
Reyna is the founder of Independent Film Minnesota. She is active in the film community and works as an actor, writer, producer, headshot photographer and serves on the Board of Directors for MN WIFT. She is passionate about the filmmaking industry, giving back to the community and seeing our state’s film industry succeed.
Independent Film Minnesota (IFM) was created as a means to promote the independent Minnesota filmmaking industry.
Co-Founders
Lillie Gardner
Lillie Gardner is a writer of prose and screenplays based in St. Paul. She was a recent winner at Austin Film Festival and Catalyst Story Institute, and she’s featured on MovieMaker magazine’s “25 Screenwriters to Watch” list for 2023. She studied creative writing at New York University and has been published in Quail Bell Magazine, the Delmarva Review, Long River Review and more. Learn more at lilliegardner.com
Sean Coffman
Sean is a digital creative consultant and filmmaker. He has over 8 years of experience in the film production industry and holds a social media certificate from Minneapolis Community and Technical College. He has held positions in many film departments including, makeup, wardrobe, production design, lighting, and as a PA. He is passionate about all things film and plans to pursue screenwriting, directing, and more positions in the world of producing. He enjoys holistic health, video games, being in nature, traveling, and, obvi, movies (genre: Sci-Fi). Sean puts his interest in pursuing activities that help him grow as a creative individual and engaging in personal artistic projects that explore his love of storytelling and all things film.
Sheana Hanson
Sheana Hanson is an Actor, photographer, film enthusiast, Talent Strategist, Recruiter, and lover of people. Film and acting has been an interest of hers for as long as she can remember . Her acting and film background includes various acting courses and independent films produced by local Minnesotans. She has worked in Talent Acquisition for 10+ years which comprises of recruitment, hiring, brand strategy and development, social media marketing and event management. She is excited to build community, get creative and collaborate with others through this new venture with Independent Film Minnesota.
Abdi Mohamed
Abdi Mohamed s a journalist and filmmaker based in the Twin Cities. His background is in documentary producing, screenwriting, and directing. He studied Communication and Media Studies at the University of Minnesota and is now a film instructor at Metro State University.
Join the team
VOLUNTEER FORM