We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Melissa “MJ” Louis-Jacques. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Melissa “MJ” below.

Alright, Melissa “MJ” thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Any advice for creating a more inclusive workplace?

Creating equitable and inclusive spaces is something I would consider both a mission for me as a business and a core value to me as a woman of color. As a mixed person – my entire life has felt like living on the outside looking in. Even when you are surrounded by folks who overlap with half of you, the other half is wondering where they fit in. As a woman – I work in an industry with majority men, causing you to always feel subconsciously a bit inferior. Combine the two and you’re always feeling like you need to work 3 times as hard to go just as far. Even the pivotal moment of me deciding to pursue production as a career was derived from being in a situation that lacked inclusivity. It was an old boss that had told me I lacked the skillset needed to succeed in that lane and suggested I explore something different. I distinctly remember a feeling in my core knowing they were wrong – but more furious and confused, knowing I was being underestimated due to being different than this person. Eventually I learned that this difference, is what causes us to have leverage – something unique and interesting to bring into every situation. When you start to understand that – It becomes a superpower to be an octagon in a world of circles. I deeply believe it is so necessary to spread this empowerment and love for your uniqueness to others – most especially women of color. So for me, I always try to hire the person who’s being underestimated as I know they are the one that will shine the most bright, strong, dynamic colors.

Melissa “MJ”, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My first role in this industry was talent – I was an employee at a media company , and was asked if I would be willing to be part of a production. I don’t think I will ever forget my first day on a set – it was so different from what I had been taught that work needed to look like, something seemingly more freeflowing and enjoyable – I was so intrigued. From there I became a apart of various video + photoshoots, a host on an IG series, an interviewer on podcasts – I was hooked, I found the world so fun, creative, learning from all these different experts on set. Then one day I realized there was a person behind it all – the common thread weaving through all these departments, silently orchestrating everything – the producer.

Once I learned about that role – I was 100% focused on getting there. In hindsight, I think what drew me in was that I saw the role involved bringing folks together, setting the tone for a space/folks’ day, and being hospitable. I still carry this core sentiment with me for every project, the understanding that the producer has the special responsibility of crafting a safe, and effective, space conducive for creation. In my eyes, doing this requires EQ, extremely strong organizational skills, being able to converse and work with various personalities, having good taste, and being able to thrive under pressure. So it’s a delicate dance of running a tight ship, but with levelheaded calmness and grace – and I find if you can add some humor/levity, that’ll take you a long way too. Every creative has their magic sauce – and the producer’s is a special type of curation and problem solving.

What makes me the most proud, is that I’ve been able to build success and relationships in this industry, built upon a common place of respect and shared values. It makes me happy to know I’m building a business that evolves from a place of my authenticity and thoughtful care and (albeit somewhat obsessively) for high quality across everything.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

Hands down – the most valuable resource I underestimated early in my creative journey was the importance of a strong accountant. Transparently, I’ve gone through 4 – from focusing on just figuring out how to do my taxes, to admitting I needed help with bookkeeping, to realizing that this person is my CFO of sorts. They help you grow – you can’t make money without understanding your money, and changing your relationship with it. I continuously remind myself that a good accountant/bookkeeper/tax strategist – this person is a huge investment in your business. I’m currently at a someone frustrating, but exciting cross roads where I’m in between doing the work and being the business owner. Without a strong understanding of my numbers, I realize I’m restricting my ability to grow. You need this to know who you can hire, what discounts to offer, what clients/jobs to pursue, how much to work during a year – so many business questions can’t be answered without a strong handle on the accounting of your business.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Having worked for brands, agencies, production companies – I’ve really learned a lot about all sides of the business and the various types of producers one could need. I’ve also learned a ton about how folks approach their creative production and resourcing.

Taking all of this in, SASA’s mission is to craft bespoke teams and process per unqiue need for the client. I find most folks are trying to deliver something sexy and special. When in reality, brands are mostly looking for a partner that can support their day to day with quality, make it a nice experience, be flexible, and not break the piggy bank. Remaining adaptable and molding our services to fit this grey area client’s need is our sweet spot.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mjtheproducer.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mj_theproducer/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-mj-louis-jacques-81793234

Image Credits

Taj Francois