San Francisco Bay Area
I have over 25 years of film industry experience supporting productions at all levels as a Pre-production Consultant, Director of the Oakland Film Office, Educator, and Thought Leader. I am experienced in contributing to all aspects of film productions, including concept definition, strategic introductions, preparations and resource procurement, logistics, marketing, and press relationships, as well as commercial audiences and community engagement. I am deeply committed to supporting artists, craftspeople, and businesses by promoting and amplifying diverse voices, facilitating inclusive employment, and driving economic equity. I have been successful in doing just that via educator roles as well as organizational leadership and consulting duties. 🔸 NOTEWORTHY AREAS OF IMPACT: ➡️ Experienced the joy of supporting filmmakers and theater artists as they explore their talents, excel professionally, positively impact their community, and our world, while making a living following their passion. ➡️ Directed and grew a successful film office in the City of Oakland, contributing significantly to increasing the areas visibility and economic growth. ➡️ Drove industry innovation by spearheading the Oakland Film & Media Center. Transformed a recently decommissioned army base into a game-changing business incubator that attracted 40+ film-related businesses to move to Oakland. Created a “one-stop shop” for local productions. ➡️ Repeatedly brought BIPOC, LGBTQ, youth, and women artists’ visions and projects to fruition. ➡️ Instructed and coached students in a variety of theatre components and empowering individuals to develop as public speakers and interpersonal communicators. ➡️ Served as an industry thought leader and presenter for a variety of events and organizations, including being a Presenter to the California State Assembly on Film / Tax Incentives, a Panelist at UC Berkeley’s HAAS Business School’s Women in Leadership Conference, and featured on a podcast interview about the Making of The Matrix. 💬 LET’S CONNECT: It is important for artist and activists to know their voices and vision are worthy of being heard and seen, know how to do so powerfully, and to have the resources to make a difference! I welcome connecting with likeminded individuals and organizations. Please contact me through LinkedIn or at [email protected]
Students are guided through the process of discovering their personal style of powerful communication that incorporates storytelling and finding their path to being passionate about the content of their presentations, so that their audience feels connected, engaged, and inspired. An effective speech has an impact on the audience. Students tap into their talents, develop their courage, and learn to speak powerfully even if they are shaking inside. Students receive extensive practice constructing and delivering speeches, providing feedback for each other, and assessing their own performances.
I started my own consulting firm in 2011 to supporting clients' creative projects. In an addition to advocating for individuals, organizations, and companies, a primary focus of my consulting efforts centers on propelling diversity and inclusion throughout the motion picture film industry. ➡️ HIGHLIGHTED PROJECTS INCLUDE: ⇨ FRUITVALE STATION: As advisor to Ryan Coogler and Sev Ohanian, liaised with public agencies and unions and provided curated crew lists that encouraged diversity, equity, and inclusive hiring practices. ⇨ BLINDSPOTTING: Researched and recommended BIPOC women screenwriters for consideration. ⇨ EAST SIDE SUSHI: Advised Producer Julie Rubio regarding logistics and agency relationships for preproduction. ⇨ LA MISSION: Worked closely with Producer/Director/Screenwriter Peter Bratt during preproduction and fundraising. ⇨ COPS AND ROBBERS: Directed, produced, and marketed this play centered on the relationship between law enforcement, the media, and the Black community, written by Jinho “Piper” Ferreira (@pipedreamzent). ⇨ THE MARSH THEATER & REEL DIRECTORY: Served as Interim Marketing Director and advised on marketing, ad sales, and website content support.
The foundation of being an effective speaker is being a deep listener, understanding one's audience, and knowing how to connect with others. I support and guide native and non-native speakers and English learners, from all walks of life, to speak with confidence in a variety of settings, both personal and professional, including overcoming their fears of public speaking. The underlying objective of this program is to empower participants with one of most powerful tools to promote social justice and create real world change—spoke communication.