Beyond the Yellow Brick Road: Why Saint's Emerald City Will Never Be Hollywood

Today, I want to talk about something near and dear to my heart: Saint's Emerald City. It's something more than just a media company; it's a vision, a movement, and a promise to the future.

For too long, the narrative has been that "making it" in the entertainment industry means conquering Hollywood. But what if there was another path? What if we could build a space where Black artists and creatives were not just tolerated but celebrated, where their stories were centered, and their well-being prioritized? That's the heart of Saint's Emerald City.

My Yellow Brick Road: From Mississippi to Hollywood and Back

In my early twenties, I chased the dream many young creatives do: I went to Hollywood. I studied acting at Playhouse West, immersing myself in the heart of the industry. It was an invaluable experience, but it also revealed some harsh truths. I realized that while Hollywood could offer opportunities, it wasn't a place where I, or many others, could truly thrive while maintaining our authentic voices and values.

That experience ignited a fire within me. It made me realize that I needed to create a space for myself, and for others like me, where we could flourish in the media world through authentic storytelling and genuine creative community building.

Why Not Hollywood?

Hollywood, for all its allure, has historically presented significant hurdles for Black creatives. The stories told often perpetuate harmful stereotypes, and the industry’s structure rarely prioritizes the ethical treatment of its artists. I believe we deserve more. We deserve a space where:

Our stories are authentic: Saint's Emerald City is dedicated to amplifying diverse Black voices, ensuring our narratives are told with nuance, depth, and respect.

Our artists are valued: We believe in fair compensation, ethical working conditions, and a supportive environment where creativity can flourish.

Our community thrives: We're building a network of Black creatives across film, TV, music, theatre, and literature, fostering collaboration and mutual support.

Building Saint's Emerald City, For Once and For All

Saint's Emerald City is not just a dream; it's a tangible reality, and for once and for all, we are building it. We are actively working to:

• Produce and promote content that reflects the richness and diversity of the Black experience.

• Provide resources and opportunities for emerging Black artists and creatives.

• Cultivate a community where Black talent can connect, collaborate, and thrive.

I don't want young Black creatives [in Mississippi] to simply aspire to "make it" in Hollywood. I want them to aspire to build and contribute to Saint's Emerald City. A place where their talent is not just a commodity but a vital part of a vibrant, thriving community.

Call to Action

Saint's Emerald City is presenting the Ensemble Guild, a creative guild, later in 2025, to form a creative community in Mississippi. This initiative is a vital step in our journey to establishing a thriving hub for Black creatives. Follow me to stay in the loop and be a part of this transformative movement.

This is more than just my vision; it's a collective endeavor. I invite you to join us on this journey. Whether you're a writer, filmmaker, musician, actor, or simply a supporter of Black art, your voice matters.

Let's build a future where Black creativity shines brightly, independent of the constraints and limitations of traditional Hollywood.