The Austin Film Festival is dedicated to championing the work of aspiring and established filmmakers, defined as screenwriters, directors, editors, producers, actors and all those artists who use the language of film to tell a story. The AFF furthers the art, craft and business of filmmaking by providing unique cultural events and services, enhancing public awareness and participation, and encouraging dynamic and long-lasting community partnerships.

The Austin Film Festival is a not for profit 501c3 corporation.

Michelle Raimo Kouyate

Michelle Raimo began her career in the film business 13 years ago when she joined Miramax Films. From 1995 to 2005, Michelle rose through the development and production ranks from an assistant to a Senior Vice President of Development and Production. During her tenure at the studio, Michelle was responsible for Executive Producing and overseeing numerous projects including the Academy Award-Nominated Chocolat, as well as The Shipping News, Ella Enchanted, The Great Raid and An Unfinished Life.

While at Miramax, Michelle took advantage of the company's proximity to the publishing business and initiated Miramax's major presence in book-based development. She also acted as liaison with TALK Magazine and Miramax Books in developing their properties into feature projects, creating a valuable and productive synergy between the company's divisions.

In 2005, she relocated from New York to Los Angeles to serve as Senior Vice President of Production at Paramount Pictures where she was responsible for overseeing producer accounts including Nickelodeon, MTV Films, Lynda Obst Productions, and Foxxhole (Jamie Foxx's production company).  During her time at the studio, she had the opportunity to work on such films as Dreamgirls, Nickelodeon's The Spiderwicke Chronicles and Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging.  In early 2006, she moved over to Nickelodeon Movies in the same capacity until the end of 2006.

Michelle is currently producing the animated feature film Puss In Boots off the Shrek franchise, with Chris Miller directing.  She is also producing a film adaptation Matthew Quick's novel, The Silver Linings Playbook for the Weinstein Company, written and to be directed by David O. Russell.  The project is currently out to cast.

Michelle grew up in New York City and currently lives in Los Angeles. She received her B.S. from St. John's University and her M.F.A. from USC School of Cinema.