We recently connected with Tiku ‘Mello’ Fisher and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Tiku ‘Mello’, thanks for joining us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

Growing up in a culturally diverse community, I witnessed firsthand the power of storytelling in fostering empathy and understanding among different groups. However, I also encountered instances where media failed to accurately represent the rich tapestry of identities and experiences within my community, perpetuating stereotypes and marginalization.

These experiences fueled my passion for social justice and equity, leading me to pursue a career working in post-production, contributing to various projects within mainstream feature films.

Driven by a desire to create meaningful change, I embarked on a mission to establish TRF Media Inc. as a platform for underrepresented storytellers. Drawing inspiration from my own cultural background and the stories of resilience and strength within my community, I envisioned a space where diverse narratives could flourish and contribute to a more inclusive media landscape.

With a focus on advocacy, empowerment, and authentic representation, TRF Media Inc. became a beacon of hope for aspiring artists and marginalized communities. My background story exemplifies my unwavering commitment to using media as a tool for social good, paving the way for a future where every voice is heard and valued.

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

My journey into the industry began as a visual artist, exploring various mediums to tell stories through imagery. I delved into teaching within the digital media landscape, covering diverse fields including advertising, computer graphics, fashion merchandising, and audio engineering. Over the years, I honed my skills and transitioned to post-production work, particularly in visual effects, contributing to over 30 feature films and episodic series. I’ve had the privilege of contributing to iconic projects like Black Panther, The Mandalorian, Spider-Man, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.

My background in visual storytelling, coupled with over a decade of teaching experience, has equipped me with a unique perspective on crafting compelling narratives. Whether through photography or post-production work, I am passionate about leveraging visual mediums to ignite conversations and provoke thought.

My career trajectory reflects a journey of exploration and discovery, guided by a relentless pursuit of storytelling. What sets me apart is my ability to seamlessly blend artistic vision with technical expertise, resulting in impactful content.

I take pride in my ability to transcend boundaries and connect with audiences on a deeper level. As you consider partnering with me, know that you’re not just investing in a service – you’re embarking on a collaborative journey to bring your vision to life in a way that resonates with audiences worldwide.

My latest project, which I co-produced and directed with L.A. Wade, is called “Can You Hear Us Now?” ‘a SMALL book. This documentary unveils deep historical lessons, encouraging viewers to reflect on self-creation through history. Professor Small’s insightful commentary offers a unique perspective on how cultural elements shape individuals and communities, fostering a renewed appreciation for cultural heritage and self-discovery. This is the first original production for TRF Media.

Any advice for managing a team?

Managing a team and maintaining high morale can be challenging, especially in demanding industries like ours. From my experience of working long hours on multiple projects, I’ve learned the importance of building strong relationships with my team members. Even when fatigue sets in, mutual respect and camaraderie can motivate everyone to push through and achieve our production goals.

In our industry, where relationships are paramount, leaving a positive impression is invaluable. Treating people with kindness and respect fosters a culture of mutual support and collaboration. I’ve found that by leading by example and employing Socratic inquiries, I can help my team members reconnect with their purpose and motivation, reigniting their passion for the work.

It’s essential to recognize the contributions of every team member, even those who may not receive public credit for their role in a project. The film credits I’ve received are a testament to the dedication and hard work of every individual on the team, regardless of whether their contributions were acknowledged publicly. Acknowledging their efforts and valuing their contributions fosters a sense of belonging and loyalty among team members.

Furthermore, creating an inclusive environment where everyone’s voice is heard and respected is crucial. Embracing diversity and cultural differences enhances creativity and fosters innovation within the team. By promoting an inclusive culture, we can tap into the full potential of our diverse team members and achieve greater success together.

Ultimately, maintaining high morale within a team requires empathy, communication, and a genuine appreciation for the contributions of every individual. By fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment, we can inspire loyalty, creativity, and excellence in our team members, leading to greater overall success in our projects.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

As an entrepreneur and manager, several resources have significantly influenced my thinking and philosophy. One book that has left a lasting impact is “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, which taught me about pursuing dreams and the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. Additionally, “The 4-Hour Workweek” by Timothy Ferriss has reshaped my approach to time management and productivity, encouraging me to focus on efficiency and work-life balance.

In terms of podcasts, Jay Shetty’s insightful discussions on personal growth and mindfulness have been invaluable. His podcast episodes offer practical advice on leadership, self-discovery, and building meaningful connections, all of which have informed my management style.

For further inspiration on storytelling and communication, “How to Tell a Story” by Donald Miller and “The Art of Immersion” by Frank Rose have provided valuable insights into crafting compelling narratives and engaging audiences effectively.

As for videos, I would recommend TED Talks on leadership, entrepreneurship, and creativity, which offer diverse perspectives and practical strategies for success in the business world. Additionally, documentaries exploring the journeys of successful entrepreneurs and leaders can offer valuable lessons and inspiration for aspiring managers like myself.

Overall, these resources have played a crucial role in shaping my management approach and entrepreneurial mindset, guiding me towards effective leadership, innovation, and personal growth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tikufisher.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mello.one
• Linkedin: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/tikufisher
• Other: https://imdb.me/tikufisher

Image Credits
All photos were taken by me, inluding the personal images of myself, Tiku ‘Mello’ Fisher. The Poster is of my upcoming Short Documentary, ‘a SMALL book’, from the Can You Hear Us Now? Docuseries, coming soon.