In addition to staffing opportunities for BBR members on WarnerMedia productions, the partnership will also include workshops on allyship and advocacy for executives and other industry decision-makers, as well as TV Academy panels focused on diversity in behind-the-camera roles.
Photo: Black Beauty Roster
Entertainment powerhouse Warner Bros. Discovery and database and training platform Black Beauty Roster (BBR) have teamed up to offer an in-depth training program for aspiring hairstylists and makeup artists from historically marginalized communities.
The WBD Access x BBR Hair & Makeup Department Head Program will select ten finalists to undergo extensive training from department heads across the country lending their expertise as guest speakers and providing essential education to ensure they are ready to fill department head roles upon completion of the program.
“As we continue to see more diverse talent in front of the camera, we have to ensure we are diversifying behind the camera as well — especially with hair and makeup. We’ve seen and heard of too many on-set hair and makeup horror stories from talent of color, and it’s time we change the narrative. We’re thrilled WarnerMedia wants to partner with us to not only diversify the industry, but lead the charge by changing it for the better.”
— Simone Tetteh, BBR co-founder
The foundation of BBR, founded by Maude Okrah, is to bring meaningful diversity across fashion and entertainment by amplifying the work and talent of Black beauty professionals. Through its efforts, a systemic issue was recognized; the lack of diversity within executive-level positions at major production studios. This Hair & Makeup Department Head Program with Warner Bros. Discovery is one crucial step towards changing this narrative. The ten finalists for this program will be announced in early October.
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