Street genius radio is a space for entrepreneurs of color to discuss the challenges that are unique to people of color; as well as a space for low-income people of color to get on the job training in radio and video production. Street Genius asked Anahita (Ahrar) Champion to chime in on the conversations about models & women in the entertainment industry and their safety, in the age of Weinstein. She is the producer and host of her YouTube series, HitaTalk, where she highlights creative entrepreneurs and artists throughout the Twin Cities. Anahita is also an award-winning event correspondent where she shines on camera and on stage with her charisma and wit whether she is emceeing, red carpet hosting and event promoting. Anahita (Ahrar) Champion shared some of her experiences working as a spokesmodel and in the entertainment industry at large. For example models/actresses/clients can often be taken advantage of by agents/agencies especially when the woman looking for employment is unaware of typical protocol when working with an agent. Anahita told us about a model branding workshop that she held a few years ago where they discussed important topics like agency rapport, conduct that is and is not okay with makeup artists, wardrobe stylists, and photographers. When the talent knows what to expect they can take precautions to avoid unethical behavior. According to Anahita, women looking for work through an agency should never pay an agency to get work. Typically an agency should take about 15-20% commission off of whatever jobs they book for you. No money is worth your safety. If an agent is asking for money up front then that means they are getting paid for work that they haven’t even done yet. Their job is to find you work. Therefore the commission off of the jobs they book you for is their incentive to find you gigs. An agency is supposed to screen jobs for you to try and protect you from potentially dangerous situations. However there is only so much screening an agency can do, and issues can arise with photographers, wardrobe stylists, directors, etc. Unfortunately we live in a society where men can get away with certain inappropriate behavior, so Anahita advises that you have to follow your gut. If something feels off, if you don’t feel comfortable, simply walk off the set. No money or amount of exposure is worth your personal safety. There was a story circulating about a photographer right here in the Twin Cities who was behaving inappropriately with freelance models. He would text them or send them e-mails to invite them out to happy hour to “get to know each other” before the shoot. Thankfully several women were brave enough to share their experiences working with him, and he was blocked from a group that would give him access to these women. There was another situation where a model from the Twin Cities was booked for a job in Mexico and the producer invited her up to have a “private conversation” in his hotel room”. She called her Mom to tell her about it, she didn’t feel comfortable, and booked a flight back to the United States right away. Even though Anahita is a seasoned professional, she still hears and sees behavior that puts women’s safety on the back burner. Hopefully after talking with Anahita on Street Genius women feel more empowered to not feel scared to say “I don’t feel safe.” and walk away. Check out Anahita as the new host of Candy Fresh’s upcoming season.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
I've always been very aware of microphones , & how they are used. The responsibility one has when they grab the mic . Which voices in our communities are amplified, and which ones are on mute. This show creates opportunities for untraditional entrepreneurs to share knowledge, & support the startup journey. Our program is a work training social venture, and will provide training & job opportunities for blacks in tech. "When I reach $1,500 per month, I’ll add an additional intern to our show. This will allow me to give them a liveable wage while they continue their education in college."
AuthorIni Augustine Archives
April 2018
Categories |