Anita Erskine's background in broadcast journalism served as a significant influence in shaping her desire to leverage her newfound understanding of communications management to tell culturally relevant stories. With her experience in broadcast journalism, Anita recognized the power of storytelling in shaping narratives and influencing public discourse. Her passion for women's issues, media, broadcasting, communications, and storytelling converged, driving her to explore how these elements could be harnessed to effect change.
Anita's journey into the Women Owning the Narrative Project was inspired by her enrollment in McMaster University's Masters of Communications Management program in Hamilton, ON. The program's unique structure, emphasizing collaboration and enabling professionals to pursue education while continuing to work, provided Anita with the perfect platform to merge her passions. The program's focus on earning a world-class education while maintaining work-life balance resonated with Anita, aligning with her values and aspirations.
The research project Anita undertook as part of the program was a culmination of her interests and experiences. The project critically examined the impact of narrative ownership and creative control by Women of Colour (WOC) in film and media, with a specific focus on the challenges faced by Black Women in these industries. Through a short documentary and accompanying research paper, Anita delved into the complexities of representation and systemic biases within the media landscape.
The documentary features powerful interviews with a diverse group of Women, shedding light on their struggles and showcasing the transformative potential of their work in advocating for diversity and inclusion. Meanwhile, the research paper provides a deeper analysis of these themes, exploring the intersection of race and gender and offering insights into the global landscape of women storytellers.
Through her project, Anita gains a unique perspective on the power of storytelling and communications in challenging stereotypes and fostering inclusivity. It provides her with essential insights into the potential of narrative control by women to effect social change. Leveraging her background in broadcast journalism and her grasp of communications management, Anita emerges with a nuanced understanding of how storytelling can shape societal perceptions and influence discourse. This unique perspective equips her with the tools and leverage to continue advocating for greater representation and creative control for Women of Colour in the media industry, amplifying their voices and narratives on a broader scale.
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