Rachael Naome, Super Person
Production Manager and Co-founder of Black Ink Cinema
Rachael Naome, Production Manager and Co-founder of Black Ink Cinema
When asked about her career achievements, a milestone for Rachael Naome, Production Manager and Co-founder of Black Ink Cinema, was quitting a comfortable job. “It wasn’t the worst job in the world. I just knew I wasn’t happy and it wasn’t for me. I’ve always been a person to do something, instead of continually complaining.” While it may sound counterintuitive and a decision Rachael would not advise lightly. Her proactive attitude at the start of her media career speaks to a personal philosophy that has allowed Rachael to steadily rise in the ranks in Television and found one of London’s most exciting cinema clubs.
“What I’ve discovered is that people want to celebrate Black cinema, if a story is captivating everyone wants to enjoy it. I think the industry limits who the audience can be for Black cinema.” Launching in 2020 with a screening of Spike Lee’s Inside Man, Black Ink Cinema’s remit is to create an interactive space for audiences to enjoy classics and new cinema releases of films by, and that feature Black people. The platform offers an enjoyable way to bridge the gaps between audiences and the industry. “70% of the audiences haven’t seen some of these films. With Set It Off people didn’t even know Jada Pinkett-Smith acted!” Another unique element to Black Ink is that Rachael founded the platform with her sister Sharon Andrews, “we have the same work ethic and on the same page of what we wanted to execute, so starting Black Ink with her was an easy decision.” In just three short years the siblings have supported major Hollywood releases including Black Panther, CREED III, The Little Mermaid, and partnered with Thomson Reuters, Adobe, and L’Oreal.
Black Ink allows Rachael to unleash her creative side through screenings with talks and themed goodies for audiences to enjoy in the relaxed atmosphere. The Black Ink podcast, produced by Rachael and Adam Horton, has also been another natural creative progression for Black Ink hosting UK talents such as Axel Blake, Destiny Ekaragha, and Aml Ameen.
“The most interesting conversations happen at our screenings and those conversations don’t happen if the space isn’t created. We debate every year about diversity at the Oscars. What Black Ink became was our little protest where we could celebrate our peers instead of waiting for “them” to celebrate us or wait for that pat on the back.”
The philosophy of proactive protest flows into Rachael’s work in TV production. To counteract the performative solidarity that sprang up in the wake of George Floyd’s murder. Rachael is super proud of being part of the driving force behind BT Sports’ first-ever Black History Month programming, the series’ three-week run featured an array of athletes including England Lions and Lionesses, pioneer Arthur Wharton, Anthony Yarde, and Christine Ohuruogu.
When quizzed about her super abilities, Rachael cites adaptability, positivity and humility. “I believe in paying things forward. My goal is to work on the content that I am passionate about. To find a better work-life balance and support more people from my community to pursue their career in TV.”
Interview by: Tega Okiti
