Stacia Akaba, Executive Producer, Tag Collective Arts
A girl from the ends in an unknown world
Careers Advice Day at school. Lists and lists of jobs to pick, to send us on our merry way to adulthood. The usual suspects were encouraged: teacher, nurse, veterinarian (I very nearly picked that one). Then I saw media studies. I spent the next two years dissecting the storylines and production of my favourite films and soaps, before studying a Film and Broadcast degree at university.
Fast forward to 2006, my first day as a runner at Big Buoy (now Tag Collective Arts), and I definitely felt different. But not necessarily because of my colour.
I had left the familiar embrace of North West London, and entered into a new world where I was met with middle-class colleagues who went ‘home’ for Christmas. I also found myself mixing with copywriters, account managers, directors, producers, editors and operators. So many people - each playing a pivotal part in creating the 30-sec ads I now found myself working on. Where were they on the list of vocations on Careers Advice Day? And why weren’t we encouraged by those around us to take up a career in an industry with such influence in our society?
Fifteen years on and four post-production houses later, I can see change unfolding, change where roles are no longer out of reach. The club doors have been opened and finally we’re seeing the underdogs in all their glory. Underrepresentation in our industry cannot be solved overnight, but by keeping the doors open and educating those that don’t know they exist, we can create change.
I haven’t directly suffered blatant racial discrimination in my career, but too many have, and now, more than ever, I recognise my responsibility as a Black British woman to continue to be a role model to those coming up the ranks.
I’m often invited to give talks or be part of events, but sometimes I silently question: “Are you only picking me because I’m Black? Do you value my skillset, my achievements?” But that’s ok. Pick me. I will fill quotas for diversity. I will do what it takes to remain seen, for us to be visible.
Earlier in the year I created The Generators, an exhibition celebrating Black female talent in the industry. The support from my colleagues, from all walks of life, was incredible. But, in the real world of job opportunities and company representation, we all have to play our part.
So here I am. I’m Black and I’m beautiful and more importantly I’m proud. Hear me, see me in all my glory. Just don’t let my colour be all that you see.
Change.
Thank you Stacia for sharing your story.
Yes, we can all create change together if we each play our part instead of waiting for the company.
Because who is the company?
Your boss? Your CEO? The founder?
Change will happen if we each play our own part. Not the mass. Us. Maybe start again fresh from today by saying: “I’m going to do something about it.”
About racism.
Then tell a friend and see if they want to do it too and ask them to tell another friend.
Starting next week our young people, our future creative talent, and also those out there right now seeking opportunities, will be sharing their stories. Our storytellers will be looking for mentors, some guidance and connections to help them on their merry way in our industry.
It’s then up to you really.
Let’s create change together.
Best wishes,
Sherry Collins
