5 Black Women Opening Doors In The Media Industry And Helping Us Walk Through With Grace
There has been a heavy conversation on the importance of sitting at the table. Allowing people of color to enter and feel safe in spaces of power is pivotal for our very own to succeed. However, it is also up to us to continue to uplift those holding the weight of the door on their shoulders. Being the one who holds the door open can be just as tiring as being the one who is trying to get through.
The media industry is a revolving door constantly rotating with new faces. Every year, we are introduced to a new influencer, artist, actress, etc. In the last few years, we’ve seen a rise of Black stars that have genuinely stepped into their “it girl era.” The celebration of representation is always called for; however, we must take a moment to give the Black women in media their flowers for constantly holding the door open. These five women continue to keep our industry in bloom!
Shannae Ingleton, CEO Of Kensington Grey.
Shannae Ingleton Smith and her partner Sean Smith founded the boutique agency to shrink the representation crisis. Kensington Grey represents hundreds of Black and Brown influencers and artists around the U.S. and Canada. Shannae’s dedication has allowed creators to work with prominent brands like Nike, Nordstrom, Walmart, Target, and so much more. Kensington Grey is becoming the safe, diverse space creator we have been seeking for so long.
Judith Jacques, Founder Of Black Women In Media
Judith Jacques founded Black Women In Media as a response to the representation gap in the media industry. Since then, Black Women In Media has become a community of women uplifting each other at the table so no one eats alone. The platform showcases women dominating in communications, media, entertainment, publishing, TV & film, and the digital and tech space. Each year, Black Women In Media hosts an award show to honor industry trailblazers. The event also includes panelists sharing their knowledge of the industry. Judith has created the blueprint for celebrating and supporting Black women; thank you, sis!
Tammy Willams, Founder Of Willams Production Company.
Tammy Williams is the first Black woman to own a television studio in Georgia. It is worth over $135 million and will be in Atlanta, Georgia. Tammy shared with Deadline, “This has not been an overnight thing; this vision is for us.” The new production owner has had this vision for over 10 years. The studio is currently being built and has no known projects at this time. We love to see our sis getting her flowers and that funding!
Johanna Fuentes, Senior Communication Executive
Johanna Fuentes is at the forefront of some of our favorite celebrity television shows. Desus And Mero, West World, The Boys--the list goes on. Although she’s moved on to HBO Max, home of our forever favorite television series Insecure, Johanna continues to open the door for Black television series. Additionally, she lead the way for Studios' and Networks Groups' internal and external messaging during the height of the pandemic. With over 25 years of experience Johanna truly gives big boss energy!
Quinta Brunson, A Black Lady Sketch Show
Before her wildly successful ABC series, Abbott Elementary, you may not have seen Quinta Brunson on the screen, but her words have entertained viewers and brought joy to many people's lives. She was a writer on the hit comedy series A Black Lady Sketch Show for its first season. Quinta has also written for Magic Girl Friendship Squad, As Of Yet, and New Girl. The Abbot Elementary executive producer, writer, and star is standing in solidarity with the WGA members fighting the AMPTP. It's been four weeks since the writers began taking a stand to bring fair wages into the industry. Quinta continues to uplift writers during this time, sharing with The Wrap, “We’re fighting for something, and we’re not gonna leave here with nothing.”
