Meet Sanicole

We were lucky to catch up with Sanicole recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Sanicole , 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?

There’s no way to run away from yourself in a room. And most times, you stand out regardless, so I’ve learned to just lean into that. Today, I’m always sure to be present, aware and proud of who I am because, if I am in the room, I belong there. And I’m not only representing my person but my experiences, my upbringing, my culture, my knowledge and skill. Authenticity is an easy practice if you’re bold enough to just be who you are. And you really can’t be concerned with why people think you’re there or if they are wondering, “How did she get the job?” Just work the job, do the best you can and keep it pushing. I’ve stared in the face of many people who questioned my presence and my expertise as a black woman in the film business, but I’d rather be questioned than be unnoticed. A chance to express yourself and share your story is one of the greatest leaps toward opportunity. That’s when you can discover like minds, and take opportunities that align with your strengths and goals. In my opinion, it’s the most effective way to be successful while being yourself, because the job will be true to you.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m Sanicole, and I’m a writer, director and filmmaker from Chicago, IL. Over the years, I’ve produced a number of short films, as well as directed commercials, documentaries, PSA’s and short form content that are rooted in love, family and community. It took me a while, but I’ve finally launched my company, Sanicole Works Entertainment, continuing my pursuit of film but entering a new era in feature-length film production. Right now, we’re developing 2 feature films and a television pilot, which has been in development for 2 years, entitled Smoking Gun! Our main goal is to reach audiences with heartwarming, funny, dramatic, yet life-changing films with a rich cinematic flare and style produced in the city of Chicago.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

I think three skills I’ve practiced over the years that have been impactful on me are being still good enough to study, being comfortable around people who know more and/or a student at all times, and being creatively adaptable and ready to pivot when necessary.

If you’re a beginner director or filmmaker, it’s very important to study and practice. Knowledgeability and experience will take you far when you can efficiently apply it in areas of creativity and structure with regard to navigating the processes of filmmaking. It’s also important to get around people who are further than you. Never underestimate the opportunities to learn and grow. There can always be something you might not know, and the filmmaking sector is constantly evolving. And lastly, practice being creatively fluid. There will be times, you’ll have to shift an idea or change plans at a moment’s notice, but as an artist you must be ready for that challenge and take action. The more creatively fluid you are, the more intentional you’ll be as a filmmaker when making crucial decisions.

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?

I think surrounding yourself with people who believe in you is extremely vital to your success. People who aren’t afraid to promote you out loud and/or say your name in the rooms you belong in. People who don’t mind investing in your creative growth or introducing you to people you should know. I believe these people should also hold you accountable, not just professionally but personally, to ensure your well-being and self-care. Having a strong support system is a warm hug when things aren’t going well and encouragement when you’re too frustrated to continue. Iron sharpens iron and birds of a feather flock together, so be sure to surround yourself with a tribe of people with a heart for what you do and who genuinely don’t mind you winning.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Sanicole, @sanicoleworksentertainment
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SanicoleWorksEntertainnment

Image Credits

1. Courtesy of Seed Lynn
2. Courtesy of Full Spectrum Features
3. Courtesy of Full Spectrum Features
4. Courtesy of Nate Birkett