NATASHA HESCHÉLLE TAKING THE INITIATIVE AT NETFLIX

They say if you want to make a difference in this world then you have to start with yourself. Filmmaker Natasha Heschélle has made those adjustments knowing that she will be facing many challenges in the industry. The Zimbabwe-born actress and former Destiny’s Child dancer has gone full steam ahead ever since she stepped into the scene. She has created Heschélle Entertainment for those who are facing the same type of challenges she has. The creation of this safe space has inspired those who want to hone their craft under this umbrella.

She now is going through a turning point in her career joining the Netflix-Banff Diversity of Voice Initiative. This opportunity will allow her to network with those who will take the time and listen to her ideas. Rather than a gatekeeper or middleman to hinder those chances, this will be a direct chance where her ultimate goals can be met. That being getting the green light on those ideas that would include those who already misrepresented in the industry. FERNTV spoke to the triple threat Natasha Heschélle of what this new role means to her.

FERNTV: How does one qualify to become part of the Netflix-Banff Diversity of Voices Initiative?  Can you describe the process?

Natasha: Each year the Netflix Banff Diversity of voices initiative allows Canadian underrepresented creators and producers to submit their work. A total of 100 of the applicants will have a pass to the Banff World Media Festival.

FERNTV: Can you explain your role in the Netflix-Banff Diversity of Voice Inititiative and what you hope to accomplish?

Natasha: As one of the selected applicants, I get the opportunity to network. These include those who are senior media industry executives of production companies, agents, broadcasters and people with the power to green-light projects. So I’m hoping to sell a TV show that I created.

FERNTV: What do we need to work on when it comes to Diversity and Inclusion in this industry?

Natasha: I think we need to work representing different people and their cultures. The world is so diverse, and all we ever see on TV is everything to do with the western world. What about Africa? What about Asia? I think everyone deserves to have the opportunity to tell their story.

FERNTV: Who do you owe to when it comes to teaching you about this industry?  Who has mentored you along the way?

Natasha: I studied the acting for camera program at Seneca College. I learned a lot from my professors and my peers. The program was so thorough. So I learned all the do and don’t. Also what I had to do to increase my chances of success in the industry. But also that it wouldn’t be easy, soI learned to set realistic expectations for my career in this industry.

FERNTV: Can you explain something that you experienced in the industry that you found unsettling?   How did you go about correcting the issue?

Natasha: I find most unsettling is that people only get hired based on what they look like or sound like and not their talent. I remember being told that I couldn’t audition for certain roles because of my accent. As well, that it would be hard for me to get good roles because I’m a “visible minority”. It’s just so unfair. I am who I am. I didn’t choose to be like this. Should I throw away my dreams simply because of what I look like and what I sound like?? I think this is something that the industry needs to look at because it is discrimination! Because I can’t audition for the roles I want, I’ve decided to create my own work. I hire people who are just as frustrated about this discrimination as I am.

FERNTV: What do you hope to learn from this Initiative?

Natasha: Since I’m getting the opportunity to meet the industry gurus, I’m hoping to learn everything about film production. I want to know how to increase my chances of success as a creator and producer.

FERNTV:  A Netflix office will soon be opening up in Toronto.  Can you explain your thoughts on this and how good this will be for the city?

Natasha: For one, most Canadian productions are underfunded, and they never get international distribution. I’m hoping that having a big company like Netflix would help fund great Canadian content. This opportunity would get them to as many eyes out there as possible.

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