We were lucky to catch up with Fatima Stripling recently and have shared our conversation below.
Fatima , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you recount a story of an unexpected problem you’ve faced along the way?
The most unexpected problem I’ve faced while being in the film industry was the 2023 strike. One by the Writers Guild of America & the other by the Screen Actors Guild. The strikes led to a shutdown of many tv and film productions impacting the entertainment industry as a whole
. The strikes started May 2023 and concluded in late November. I’d just gave birth to my son in February 2023 and went back to work to film Bad Boys Ride or Die in April, due to the strike we were shut down in June. It was a very scary time, not knowing when we would return to work.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Fatima Stripling and I’m a Set Costumer/Personal Costumer in the Wardrobe department in the film industry. I’ve been in the industry for 12 years which is such a blessing. The film industry was introduced to me by one if my good friends by way of an internship prior to me graduating college. It was a great experience and I knew that there was no going back! I am most proud of “Light, Camera & Action”, my costume class that I teach to non-union members. There’s so many moving parts in the costume department, which allows creativity & teamwork. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else!
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My ultimate goal to be a Personal Costumer to one actor by being in their contract. This means that I would only work and take care of this actor on set. As a new mother this would benefit me in more ways than one.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is getting to see my hard work on the big screen. Knowing that myself and my entire crew created entertainment for so many people across the globe!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Fatimad_style
- Other: TikTok: FatimaDCostumes
Image Credits
Films: The Color Purple, They cloned Tyrone, Bad Boys Ride or Die
TV: SNL 50th Anniversary