Ava DuVernay to receive directing prize at Britannia Awards

Filmmaker Ava DuVernay has been selected by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts Los Angeles (BAFTA Los Angeles) to receive the John Schlesinger Britannia Award for excellence in directing.
DuVernay joins previously announced honouree Dick Van Dyke, who will receive the award for excellence in television.
The awards will be presented on October 27 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
"Ava is both a fearless director and a champion of talent, who has used her platform to shed light on some of the most important issues facing the world today.
"She has brought together talents from the US and UK for her projects, and successfully crafted work that resonates with audiences around the globe, making her incredibly deserving of this honour," said Kieran Breen, chairman of BAFTA Los Angeles.

Past recipients include Ang Lee, Sam Mendes, Mike Newell, Danny Boyle, Christopher Nolan, David Yates, Quentin Tarantino, and Kathryn Bigelow.