The Obamas Continue to Make Power Moves

Last year Michelle and Barack Obama announced they signed a multi-year deal with Netflix for scripted and unscripted films and series. Their production company is called Higher Grounds Production and aims to empower the voices of new and diverse.

So now you may wonder what is the progress looking like. Well, some big names have been hired and they include Priya Swaminathan and Tonia Davis serving as co-heads of the company, joined by creative executive Qadriyyah “Q” Shamsid-Deen.

Experience Brought

Alex J. Berliner/ABImages

Before coming to Higher Ground Productions Swaminathan oversaw the film development for Megan Ellison’s Annapurna. Prior to that, she developed and produced documentary and fiction projects. Her credits include 2007 Showtime teen prostitution documentary “Very Young Girls,” along with documentaries for critically acclaimed series ESPN; 30 for 30 and work for MTV.

Tonia Davis has been an executive producer. Her credits include an Amy Schumer comedy “Snatched” and “The Greatest Showman.” In 2015 she joined Chenin entertainment as Vice President for Film. Her role included being in charge of the development and production of the company’s film and television projects

Shamsid Deen worked previously as a program director at Ryan Murphy Television’s Half Initiative. She has also worked with Brad Simpson and Nina Jacobson at Color Force.

Obama’s Statements on The Hires

Here is what the former First Lady and President had this to say about the hires.

“They’re masterful storytellers. They’re veterans in the industry. And they not only bring their unique perspectives and life experiences to every project, but they’re committed to finding new voices who have their own stories to tell. Michelle and I couldn’t be more excited about the team we’re assembling.” – Barack Obama

 

“Our goal isn’t just to make people think—we want to make people feel and reach outside of their comfort zone. With their thoughtfulness, creativity, and empathy, we know that Priya, Tonia, and Q will find the common thread within every story to inspire us to be something more. I’m thrilled about this team as professionals—and as people.

They’re wonderful.” – Michelle Obama

Source

Deadline

CNBC