WHY DID WE COME TOGETHER?
The film industry is exclusive for a variety of reasons. It is a highly competitive field with a limited amount of jobs and many aspiring professionals. This means that there is often intense competition for job opportunities, and individuals who are not well-connected or do not have prior experience may struggle to enter the industry.
Another reason for the exclusivity of the film industry is its reliance on relationships and networking. Many job opportunities in the industry are not publicly advertised and are only shared through word-of-mouth or personal connections. This means that individuals who do not have pre-existing relationships with industry professionals may struggle to get their foot in the door.
Additionally, there is a long history of nepotism and favoritism in the film industry, where opportunities are given to individuals with connections or family ties to industry insiders. This creates a cycle where certain individuals and families maintain a stranglehold on the industry, making it difficult for new and diverse voices to be heard.
To address these issues, we need more transparency. We have come together to shift the narrative, encourage accountability, and create opportunities for underrepresented voices. This involves initiatives such as mentorship programs, diversity quotas, and efforts to make job opportunities more accessible and publicly advertised.
WHY IS COMMUNITY SO IMPORTANT IN THE CHANGE?
Co-Creating a diverse community helps fight exclusivity in the film industry in several ways:
Networking opportunities: Building a diverse community can provide opportunities for individuals without pre-existing connections in the industry to network with others and build relationships. This breaks down some of the barriers to entry and makes it easier for marginalized voices to be heard.
Mentorship and support: A diverse community can provide mentorship and support to aspiring professionals, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. This can provide guidance and resources for individuals who struggle to break into the industry.
Increased representation: By creating a more diverse community, there is a greater chance that underrepresented voices will be listened to. This can increase representation in the industry and combat issues such as tokenism or stereotyping.
Collective advocacy: A diverse community advocates for change in the industry. By coming together and sharing experiences, we push for more accountability and transparency, showing that this is not an individual but a structural problem that needs to be confronted collectively.
RED STORIES: JOBS / CASTINGS / OPPORTUNITIES
YELLOW STORIES: INSPIRATION
BLUE STORIES ARE: VOLUNTARY SUBJECTS
Tag us in any job post or industry-relevant subjects about making the film industry a more inclusive and safer place. We will review and share.
If you are sharing a job offer or casting make sure to educate yourself on how to create a safer space for the talent and be aware of power imbalances that might be at play. Check out our guides on Instagram to find our favorite educational accounts.
Underline who you are looking for, where, when, which languages must be spoken, if it is a paid opportunity and what level of skill is required.