Celebrating Women’s History Month with Hollywood’s finest! In a tribute to Women’s History Month, five influential Hollywood executives are being lauded for their outstanding contributions to the industry and their commitment to uplifting black narratives. The special “Women To Know” issue, released by prominent platforms, showcases the remarkable achievements and success of these individuals who have transitioned into executive positions to support impactful art.
The cover story features Tara Duncan, President of Onyx Collective; Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures; Amber Rasberry, Senior Film Executive of Development, Production & Acquisitions at Amazon MGM Studios; Niija Kuykendall, Vice President of Film at Netflix; and Alana Mayo, Head of Orion Pictures. Described as a group of creatives who have paved the way for meaningful storytelling, these women have been handpicked for their stellar work in championing black stories and storytellers.
The cover story delves into their reflections on navigating the complexities of Hollywood as black executives, emphasizing the importance of leaving behind a legacy of knowledge and impact. Despite the competitive nature of the industry, their bond as friends and sisters transcends professional rivalry, fostering a supportive network that uplifts and empowers each other. Their collective achievements underscore the power of diversity and collaboration in shaping the future of entertainment.
Reflecting on their experiences as black executives in Hollywood, the featured individuals shed light on the importance of leaving a lasting legacy. Amber Rasberry emphasized the significance of passing down knowledge and impact to future generations, stating, “For me, [legacy] is leaving behind the lessons and impact of my knowledge, words, presence, and the things I have done.”
The cover story also delves into the complexities of bringing projects to fruition in the entertainment industry. Alana Mayo highlighted the intricate process behind every successful movie, emphasizing the dedication and perseverance required to navigate the competitive landscape. She stated, “Every movie that gets made is this little miracle because there’s this alchemy of events that have to occur for anything to become possible.”
Under the leadership of these exemplary women, audiences have been treated to a range of groundbreaking projects. From Niija Kuykendall’s involvement in “Judas and the Black Messiah” to Amber Rasberry’s contribution to “The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” each executive has played a pivotal role in bringing diverse and impactful stories to the screen.
Despite working at different companies, the bond between these executives transcends professional rivalry. Niija Kuykendall remarked on their unique camaraderie, stating, “We’re all at different companies so we’re technically rivals—and we often are competitive with each other—but first and foremost we’re friends and sisters.”
The cover story not only celebrates the achievements of these Hollywood executives but also highlights the power of sisterhood and collaboration in the industry. As Nicole Brown aptly stated, “We all are rooting for each other and want each other to do well.”
In a time where diversity and representation are at the forefront of conversations within the entertainment industry, the recognition of these trailblazing executives serves as a testament to the progress being made. Their dedication to championing black stories and fostering a sense of sisterhood underscores the importance of amplifying diverse voices and experiences in Hollywood.
