Tell us a bit about your recent acceptance into the Producers Guild Power of Diversity Master Workshop, how it’ll benefit you and what it means for your career? 

In the summer of 2019, my producing partner, Deshawn Plair, and I were accepted into the 2019 class of the Producers Guild Power of Diversity Master Workshop, an 8-week intensive program that helps producers gain more insight into different aspects of the producing process and gain tools to develop their scripts. Our feature adaptation of the novel “Better Than I Know Myself” was accepted into the program. Being in the program was beneficial because we were connected with two really amazing mentors, received extensive script notes and had the opportunity to work on our pitch for the project. We also gained invaluable insight into current industry trends, important producing and writing tools and had the opportunity to learn from top producers in the business. I also made great connections among the other participants in the program and we all plan to support each other as much as possible.  It will definitely help with not only getting this film made but also enhanced my overall skills as a producer.

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What does it mean to be an award-winning producer of docu-series like ‘Unsung’ and ‘American Gangster? (list specific accolades you’d like to share)

I recently served as a Showrunner on the BET+ series “American Gangster: Trap Queens” with the first half of the season released in October 2019.  Prior to that, I produced episodes of the award-winning docu-series “Unsung” that airs on the TVOne network, and the spin-off series “Unsung Hollywood”.  I’ve received 6 NAACP Images Awards with “Unsung” and I had the privilege of giving the acceptance speech for our 6th win! And many years before, I worked as an associate producer on the original critically-acclaimed “American Gangster” series.  It means a lot to be a part of award-winning and critically-acclaimed series that are having an impact in the community and shinning a light on our stories that are not otherwise being told.  I think it’s so important to share these stories.  With “Unsung” I’ve had the chance to be a part of creating an unprecedented visual library of Black music and entertainment and it’s been quite rewarding to see how it’s touched fans and the artists themselves.

 

What are the types of themes you like to explore in your work?

One of the main themes I want to explore in my work, especially as a director and writer, are tales of first-generation Americans.  As a first-generation Nigerian-American, I have a unique experience different from the average American and for the most part, we don’t see these types of stories on screen.  This country has such a mix of people from so many backgrounds, I feel it’s important to explore these first-generation stories as well as incorporate different cultural experiences and backgrounds in film and television more often. I also like to explore topics that are currently having an impact in our society.  For instance, I recently co-wrote and co-produced a short film about gun violence in schools called “First Day Back” that starred Loretta Devine and Aisha Hinds.  Some years before, I directed a short film about HIV/AIDS in the Black teen community.  I like to make films that shed light on different topics and open up a dialogue about them.

 

What projects are you currently working on (and/or where can we see your work – provide links if available)? 

I currently have a short film that I co-wrote and co-produced called First Day Back” that is on the festival circuit.  It won Best Short at the International Black Film Festival in Nashville.  I am currently working on a scripted comedy for Urban Movie Channel to begin in 2020.  I’m also preparing to produce the feature adaptation of “Better Than I Know Myself” and shopping a comedy series about mental health.  Lastly, I am writing an original feature script that will be my feature directorial debut.

Work that is currently available to view:

• American Gangster: Trap Queens Available on BET+
• Yemi’s Dilemma *Won Best Narrative Video – Black Cinema International Berlin
• Unsung 
• Who Do You Know?

 

What advice would you give to women of color aspiring to be a director/producer like yourself?

The main advice I’d given anyone aspiring to be a producer or director is to find any way you can to bring your ideas to life and don’t let any obstacles that may get in the way stop you.  It’s important to keep creating, to do the work and get the practice to truly learn your craft.  Focus on learning your craft and appreciate the journey along the way.  A lot of people want things to happen really fast but you have to put in the work and give it time.  But there will always doubters, people telling you no at every turn and just a host of setbacks, but just hold on to the passion you have and faith so you don’t let anyone or anything stop your from achieving your goals. Lastly, find your tribe – a group of like-minded people to collaborate with and to provide support for one another.  We can’t do any of this alone!

 

How long have you been a 3As member and how has the organization benefited you? 

I have been a member of 3As for about four years and it’s been a great experience.  For a long time I didn’t really work with or see a lot of other African artists and for much of my life pursuing a career in this field was discouraged.  To join 3As and see so many other people who are just like me acting, producing, writing and directing, it was just an awesome feeling. It gave me greater confidence and made me feel like I had my own supportive community that I could truly relate to in Los Angeles. Also, I met some amazing actors to work with in my films and have gotten opportunities to direct projects created by other members.  And it’s been a blessing to just know Francis Onelum who has pushed me to open up in many ways and always introduces me (and everyone) to new people.  I feel at home with 3As and I’m truly thankful for the organization.