Media Professionals of color inspire FAMU students

Florida A&M (FAMU) students from a variety of majors filled the seats of Lee Hall on January 19th at 6pm for the Knight Speaker Series “The Real Deal: Succeeding behind the scenes in TV & Film”, hosted by FAMU School of Journalism and Graphic Communication (SJGC) Professor Francine Huff.

SJGC Dean Ann Kimbrough welcomed all guests and participants to enjoy the panel of media professionals of color. They were Lori Hall, Senior Vice President of Marketing for TV One; FAMU alumni James Bland, Actor, Director and producer; Mitzi Miller, Head of Development at Rainforest Entertainment and former Editor-in-Chief of Jet and Ebony magazines; and Writer Sameer Gardezi. (Karyn Parsons, actress and founder of Sweet Blackberry, did not arrive due to a weather-delayed flight but she presented a video message.)

Huff, FAMU SJGC Knight Chair for Student Achievement, lead the panel discussion asking how the panelists’ businesses are promoting diversity. The panelists shared insights on succeeding in the entertainment and media field.

“At TV ONE we’re pushing for more female directors at the forefront, said Hall. I think we should encourage women in non-traditional roles like being behind the screen.”

Bland, whose latest release is “Giants”, believes that for Black people “representation is important. It’s important to begin to tell our stories and believe they can sell.”

When asked what would you tell your younger self, Gardezi believes in remaining true to yourself. “Be yourself! It’s simple,” Gardezi said. “In recent shows like “Atlanta” and “Insecure”, people found success in embodying themselves.”

Miller offered a hopeful perspective. “Any degree from FAMU, means you’re prepared to succeed.” The audience of students cheered loudly.

Huff switched lanes asking “Do you think people of color are drifting towards digital space because opportunities just aren’t there?”

“In Hollywood, you have gatekeepers,” said Bland. You have folks telling you your content won’t sell. The beautiful thing about digital space is that you can remove that gatekeeper and create your own content online while reaching the world.”

“Neither traditional nor digital media are going away, so why not do both,” said Gardezi. Don’t close any door, figure out your brand and voice.”

Hall implores students not to chase the money. “Follow your passion. If you’re authentic then hopefully the money will come,” said Hall.

The subject of facing uncomfortable workplace situations prompted a more nurturing discussion.

Miller’s advice is to choose your battles. “Do not find yourself passionate about every argument. Sometimes it’s ok to just listen. You may lose the battle but you will win the war,” said Miller.

When the panel invited Q&A, students from diverse majors including Music and Chemical Engineering had questions such as how to be successful in the industry

During the Q&A, students were advised not to be afraid of working for free:, Volunteer.

Students seemed genuinely inspired by the advice from panelists.

Gayla Bush, 19, a sophomore Broadcast Journalism student knows that she will have to work hard for success. “As African Americans, we know the TV and Film Industry is not always fair. We should never be afraid to speak up and bring something new to the table,” said Bush.

Lissa Jules, 22, a graduating Broadcast Journalism student was inspired to work on her passion. “When your work is your passion, you tend to flourish more,” said Jules. “That’s something I’ve always been aware of but I’m glad I heard it from people in the field.”