We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ayana Jones a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ayana , so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Being the only person in the room who looks like me has been a lifelong reality. In an industry like film, which has historically been dominated by white males, navigating these spaces has come with its challenges. But I’ve learned that confidence and preparation are my strongest allies. Walking into any room, I make sure to do my homework, understanding who I’m engaging with and the dynamics of the industry. While it can be glaring to be the sole representative of diversity, I remind myself to focus on my abilities and self-worth rather than solely on my appearance.
You know, as an assistant location manager, I can vividly recall this one time on a tech scout where I was the only black woman in the room. It hit me like a ton of bricks—this glaring lack of diversity that just keeps on repeating itself in the industry. But you know what? Instead of letting it get me down, it fires me up to push for change. I’m on a mission to build teams that reflect the real world, with all its beautiful diversity.
Whenever I get the chance, I make it a point to seek out folks from all walks of life. Because let’s face it, the more diverse our teams are, the richer our work becomes. It’s about creating a space where everyone feels valued and heard. And I truly believe that by doing this, we not only make better films but also pave the way for a more inclusive industry.
So yeah, integration is key, my friend. Let’s make sure every department in film reflects the beautiful tapestry of humanity. Because at the end of the day, it’s about giving everyone a shot to shine, no matter what they look like.
Being the only one who looks like me has taught me that success isn’t about conformity. It’s about networking, forming genuine connections, and proving my worth through hard work and dedication. Standing at 5’1″, a petite black woman, I inevitably stand out. But I take pride in leaving a positive impression as someone who commands the room with hard work and authenticity.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Born with an unwavering love for the arts, I’ve embarked on a creative journey that seamlessly blends my passion for film, television, web and logo design and photography into a vibrant narrative. Armed with an undergraduate degree in Mass Communication from Winthrop University, I launched my career in the dynamic world of news, where I made significant contributions to the success of Charlotte’s top-ranked station, WSOC-TV.
However, my heart yearned for a deeper immersion in the realms of storytelling and visual arts. Fueled by this fervor, I embarked on a new chapter by earning my master’s degree in Film Production from the esteemed Florida State University College of Motion Picture Arts. This transformative experience allowed me to plunge headfirst into the world of cinema, where I discovered my true calling.
Currently, I work as an Assistant Location Manager, acting as a liaison between the community and film production. My role involves ensuring smooth filming operations by securing contracts with businesses and homeowners, negotiating deals, and scouting locations. From classics like “The Color Purple” to modern hits like Apple TV’s “A Family Plan,” I’ve been privileged to contribute to various film projects.
In addition to being an Assistant Location Manager, I also independently Produce. I am currently in a post-production for a pilot series titled “Tri-County.” This half-hour dramedy delves into the lives of black, brown, and queer individuals in South Florida’s tri-county area. It’s a passion project that aims to shed light on diverse narratives and experiences. More information about our series can be found at www.tri-countytheseries.com.
My role as an assistant location manager not only enhances my skills but also fuels my passion for independent producing. It’s a multifaceted journey where creativity knows no bounds. Whether crafting compelling narratives, designing striking visuals, or curating engaging content, my dedication to delivering exceptional work remains unwavering. In every project, I’m driven by a desire to push the boundaries of imagination and creativity.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back on my journey, I believe that relatability, efficiency, and confidence were the three most impactful qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge.
Relatability played a significant role in networking and building meaningful connections. My advice for those starting their journey is to research the individuals you interact with and find common ground. Whether it’s shared interests, experiences, or goals, establishing relatability fosters rapport and opens doors for collaboration.
Efficiency is crucial in navigating the complexities of any industry. Staying organized, level-headed, and proactive allows you to stay one step ahead. Develop systems and workflows that optimize your productivity and effectiveness, enabling you to tackle challenges with ease and meet deadlines with confidence.
Confidence is a cornerstone of success. It’s about trusting your abilities, making decisions with conviction, and owning your journey. Confidence doesn’t mean having all the answers but rather having the courage to take calculated risks and learn from both successes and setbacks. Move forward with logic, always prioritizing what’s best for the team and the task at hand.
To those embarking on their journey, my advice is simple, cultivate relatability, prioritize efficiency, and embrace confidence. These qualities will not only propel you forward but also empower you to navigate obstacles and seize opportunities with grace and determination.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
I am actively seeking collaboration opportunities. Producing is not just a profession for me; it’s where my heart truly lies. I’m on the lookout for exceptional scripts and talented directors who share my passion for storytelling and filmmaking. Together, we can bring these stories to life on the screen.
When it comes to scripts, I’m open to exploring a wide range of genres and themes. What matters most to me is finding projects with clear visions, compelling narratives, and the potential to resonate with audiences. Whether it’s a thought-provoking drama, an edge-of-your-seat thriller, or a heartwarming comedy, I’m eager to collaborate with creative minds who are ready to bring their stories to life.
In addition to great scripts, I value collaboration with directors who have a strong vision and a commitment to excellence. I believe in fostering an environment of respect, integrity, and creativity, where every voice is heard and valued. Together, we’ll work tirelessly to ensure that our projects not only meet but exceed expectations.
If you’re a writer with a captivating script or a director with a bold vision, I’d love to hear from you. You can connect with me through my website at www.ayanajones.com. Let’s join forces and create something truly extraordinary together.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ayanajones.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ayanaashley/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ayana.jones.7
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayana-jones-4836b1117/
- Other: IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm11343480/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_5_nm_3_q_ayana%2520jones
Image Credits
Oprah Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg
