We were lucky to catch up with Tané Hopper recently and have shared our conversation below.

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

Creating an inclusive workplace isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about fostering a culture where people feel valued, heard, and empowered to show up as their full selves. As a Black queer woman working in both creative advertising and filmmaking, I’ve seen firsthand how inclusivity (or the lack of it) impacts collaboration, creativity, and personal growth.

A pivotal moment that shaped my perspective was when I embraced roles that challenged me to advocate for myself and fully commit to the work. In those moments, I proved not only my capability to excel but also the importance of expressing my unique voice. Whether at Humanaut, where I tend to be on male-dominated teams, or through my freelance work, I’ve noticed that inclusivity isn’t just about who’s in the room—it’s about who feels comfortable speaking up. When workplaces actively encourage diverse perspectives, it results in better storytelling, smarter strategies, and a more dynamic creative environment.

On the flip side, I’ve seen companies/individuals pride themselves on diversity numbers but fail to create real pathways for underrepresented voices to influence the work or the culture. Equity in the workplace is like cultivating a garden. It’s not enough to just plant seeds (representation); you have to tend to them, provide the right nutrients (mentorship), ensure each plant gets enough sunlight (fair opportunities), and listen to the needs of each flower as it grows (genuine listening) to ensure a thriving, diverse landscape. One of the most impactful workplace experiences I’ve had was working with teams that not only valued diverse perspectives but actively sought them out. It’s one thing to be welcomed into a room; it’s another to feel like your presence truly matters. Those moments have shaped the way I approach collaboration today.

Ultimately, inclusivity isn’t a static goal; it’s an ongoing effort that requires action, reflection, and a willingness to evolve. The best workplaces I’ve been a part of weren’t perfect, but they were intentional. That’s what makes all the difference.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Tané Hopper, a filmmaker, photographer, and creative professional based in Chattanooga. My work encompasses cinematography, commercial video production, and social media creation. During the day, I am part of the production team at Humanaut, an advertising agency and production company. Additionally, I actively participate in community-driven creative spaces, including co-running the Chattanooga Film Club and serving as a board member of AAF Chattanooga (American Advertising Federation).

My journey started with a passion for visual storytelling—first through photography, then filmmaking, where I honed my skills in pre-production, production, and post. Over the years, I’ve built a career that balances freelance work with agency production, specializing in video production, branding, and content creation. Whether shooting a documentary, directing a commercial, or developing social media content, my goal is always the same: to tell authentic, compelling stories that resonate.

What sets me apart is my ability to bridge creative vision with execution. I also prioritize inclusivity, ensuring diverse voices and perspectives are represented in the work I create.

I’m most proud of my projects that build community, whether it’s a film that sparks conversation, a brand campaign that challenges norms, or an event that brings creatives together. At the heart of my work is a desire to make meaningful connections—between stories, audiences, and the people behind the scenes.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My goal is to tell stories that feel real, invite people into a space that feels safe, and bring folks together—especially stories about people who look like me or have experiences many don’t often consider. I’m all about amplifying different voices, building inclusive creative spaces, and making sure I’m collaborating with various types of people. Not only do I love creating and sharing these types of stories, but I personally always want to be learning from others.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding part of being creative is seeing an idea come to life and knowing it resonates with people. Whether it’s a film, a photo, or an event, I love creating something that makes others feel seen, inspired, or just excited to be part of it. The best moments are when a project sparks a real connection; something that sticks with people.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tanehopper.squarespace.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tanehopper/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tan%C3%A9-hopper-2666a0135/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tanehopper