Diversifying Beauty: Textured Hair & Make-up Training Initiative Supported by Prime Video and Sky
A new initiative supported by Prime Video, Sky, and British broadcasters aims to provide training for hair and make-up crew working with actors from ethnic minority backgrounds. The Textured Hair & Make-up for Deep Skin-Tones Accelerator course, developed by Dandi, a branch of TriForce Creative Network, will offer training opportunities for individuals at different career stages. The courses will include in-person and online training, industry showcases, paid placements, and ongoing support for two years.
The initiative will recruit 10 participants in three streams: Elevate, Evolve, and Equip, targeting emerging talent, mid-career professionals, and existing crew members seeking upskilling. Backed by Amazon's Prime Video Pathway and other major broadcasters, the program aims to address the challenges faced by actors from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds in finding suitable hair and make-up services, which can impact their well-being, authenticity, and the overall production quality.
Research has shown that a significant percentage of actors from diverse backgrounds struggle to find hair and make-up services that meet their needs. Dandi, with the support of industry organizations like Pact, has previously published Hair & Make-Up Equity Guidelines to address these issues. The importance of skilled hair and make-up artists in storytelling in film and television cannot be overstated, as they play a crucial role in creating a sense of trust and authenticity on set.
Fraser Ayres, the founder of Dandi, emphasized the significance of representation both on and off-screen, highlighting the importance of hair and make-up artists' confidence in working with diverse hair textures and skin tones. By empowering professionals in this field, the initiative aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can feel valued and express themselves freely. The commitment to training and upskilling crew members reflects a broader industry effort to promote diversity and inclusivity in all aspects of production.