We were lucky to catch up with Mya-Breyana Morton recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Mya-Breyana, thanks for joining us today. What do you think Corporate America gets wrong in your industry? Any stories or anecdotes that illustrate why this matters?
In my experience as a filmmaker, I believe one of the areas where Corporate America often falls short in our industry is the insufficient representation of diverse voices and perspectives. While my bio doesn’t explicitly delve into this issue, it’s a prevalent concern that impacts the entire filmmaking landscape.
One notable challenge is the struggle to secure support and funding for projects that deviate from conventional narratives or feature characters from underrepresented communities. I’ve encountered situations where innovative and compelling stories faced resistance because they didn’t align with mainstream expectations. This not only hinders creativity but also perpetuates stereotypes in the media.
For instance, navigating the corporate landscape can be particularly challenging when attempting to bring to life narratives that challenge societal norms or shed light on perspectives outside the mainstream. The emphasis on box office success sometimes overshadows the importance of telling meaningful stories, limiting the diversity of voices that reach audiences.
I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact of these challenges on fellow filmmakers who, despite having powerful stories to tell, struggle to gain the necessary support from Corporate America. This matters because it narrows the scope of cinematic storytelling and perpetuates a lack of representation, both in front of and behind the camera.
My dedication to amplifying marginalized voices and defying conventions in my work is driven by a commitment to addressing these industry challenges. By pushing for more inclusive narratives and perspectives, I aim to contribute to reshaping the cinematic landscape and challenging the status quo in Corporate America’s approach to filmmaking.
Mya-Breyana, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Hello, I’m Mya-Breyana Morton, an award-winning director and cinematographer celebrated for my impactful work within storytelling. My multicultural upbringing in Kuwait ignited a passion for storytelling through diverse perspectives, leading to a Master of Fine Arts degree from the Savannah College of Art and Design.
My commitment to amplifying marginalized voices is evident in projects like the Webby Award-winning “Because, I Love You” and acclaimed student films such as “What Remains of Emily,” “Proud,” and “The Traveler.” Notably, I’ve been honored as a Forbes 30 Under 30 awardee in the Media category for the upcoming year.
Beyond my individual pursuits, I proudly am a cofounder to The Production Circle, a community center dedicated to empowering and educating independent creative artists. Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker or just starting, The Production Circle is your support system for nurturing diverse voices.
As we strive towards our mission, we’re always on the lookout for sponsors and donors who share our vision. If you’re passionate about supporting independent artists and fostering creativity, consider joining us at The Production Circle. You can learn more about me and my work at my website, [myabre.com](https://myabre.com/), and explore The Production Circle at [productioncircle.org](https://productioncircle.org/). Together, let’s embark on a journey of creativity, collaboration, and positive impact.
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
For me, networking has been the most invaluable source of connecting with new clients. Building genuine relationships within the filmmaking community and beyond has opened doors to exciting collaborations and opportunities. Whether it’s through industry events, film festivals, or online platforms, the power of networking has been instrumental in expanding my reach and attracting clients who resonate with my passion for storytelling and commitment to diverse perspectives.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative for me is the ability to evoke emotions and provoke thoughts through storytelling. There’s a profound satisfaction in knowing that my work has the power to impact and connect with audiences on a deep, emotional level. Whether it’s sparking conversations, challenging perspectives, or providing a moment of escapism, the transformative potential of storytelling is incredibly fulfilling. It’s the unique ability to leave a lasting impression and contribute to the cultural tapestry that makes being an artist and creative an immensely gratifying journey.
I also like that I can set my own schedule.
Contact Info:
- Website: myabre.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mya.bre/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mya-morton/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@myasjourney
- Other: productioncircle.org