The Filmmakers

Meet the Team

Driven by purpose. Shaped by craft. Creating stories that leave audiences changed.

The Ceola J. Griffin Films creative team

The creative team behind Finding Her Voice for Christmas is also part of its cast. Each key filmmaker brings their unique artistry to the story both behind the camera and on screen.

Ceola J. Griffin — Writer · Director · Producer
WriterDirectorProducerFounder

Also appearing as Sis Theresa

Ceola J. Griffin

Writer · Director · Producer

Ceola J. Griffin is a visionary writer, director, producer, and storyteller whose work is shaped by a deep commitment to transformation, purpose, and authentic representation. As the founder of CJG Productions and The Ceola J. Collective, she leads a multi-dimensional platform spanning film, stage, media, coaching, and community impact.

Her theatrical journey began with From Female to Woman to Lady (2017), followed by the powerful If These Walls Could Talk series — productions known for their honest portrayal of family, faith, healing, and real-life experience. In 2020, she created 212 Vernon Place, a family sitcom that debuted on YouTube and the beta run of CJ Network TV.

Expanding from stage to screen, she recorded her stage play Finding Her Voice in 2021, which was featured on Broadway On Demand — marking a pivotal step into digital distribution. She is now bringing that story to life as the upcoming feature film Finding Her Voice for Christmas.

Beyond film, Ceola is the publisher of Home with Ceola J., a faith-centered lifestyle magazine, and the host of IMPACT with Ceola J., where real stories of resilience and transformation are shared to educate, encourage, and inspire.

Ceola also serves as founder, board president, and executive director of Dream2b, a nonprofit invested in community empowerment. Her mission, across every platform, is to create emotionally driven content that inspires healing, awakens purpose, and reminds audiences of the power of their own voice.

Don "Dusty" Phelps — Co-Director · Actor
Co-DirectorActor

Appearing as Pastor Kingsley

Don "Dusty" Phelps

Co-Director · Actor

Don "Dusty" Phelps is a powerhouse in theater and film whose journey is a testament to bold reinvention and unwavering purpose. After a 36-year career in Corporate America, Dusty made the life-changing decision to step fully into his lifelong calling in the arts.

A graduate of California State University, Hayward, with a major in Theatrical Arts, Dusty has always carried a deep love for performance and storytelling. Following his retirement in 2012, he established himself in local theater with a commanding presence and authentic delivery.

His work with CJG Productions includes standout roles such as David in From Female to Woman to Lady (2017) and the unforgettable Deacon Kingsley in the If These Walls Could Talk trilogy, where he also co-directed (2018–2019). In 2020, he co-directed 212 Vernon Place and the acclaimed stage play Finding Her Voice.

Beyond the stage, Dusty is deeply committed to his community — mentoring youth and serving as head chef at his church, operating a food pantry for underserved and unhoused populations. His work, on both sides of the camera, reflects excellence, heart, and purpose.

Rick Irvin — Co-Director · Producer
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Appearing as Jordan Jones

affectentertainment.com ↗

Rick Irvin

Co-Director · Producer

Rick Irvin is an accomplished film producer and director with a strong track record in faith-based and independent cinema. His producing credits include Intersection, which earned 77 festival awards, and the family faith film Heavenly Deposit. He brings industry expertise, production leadership, and strategic vision to Finding Her Voice for Christmas.

His contributions span co-direction, production planning, budget development, shoot schedule coordination, and overall production execution — ensuring the film is positioned for successful completion and broad distribution.

Deandre Griffin (DreLovesGod) — Music Composer · Music Producer
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Also appearing as Tommy Adams

drelovesgod.com ↗

Deandre Griffin (DreLovesGod)

Music Composer · Music Producer

DreLovesGod is a faith-driven artist, songwriter, and creative whose work blends music, message, and purpose to inspire transformation and hope. His artistry reflects real-life experiences shaped by faith, perseverance, and identity.

His musical journey includes contributing to a platinum award-winning project alongside renowned artist Deborah Cox — a significant milestone that established his presence in the industry. Beyond accolades, his mission is centered on impact: music that ministers, uplifts, and calls people back to what matters.

His original music — including his latest single "For Us" — delivers messages that speak directly to the heart, reminding listeners of God's love and the power of redemption. As composer and music producer for Finding Her Voice for Christmas, Dre brings spiritual resonance and emotional depth to every moment of the film's score.

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