TRAILBLAZERS
The genesis of the Trailblazers project – in conversation with Kara Miller Why create this series? “There is a distinct lack of factual entertainment programming in the UK that is specifically targeted at black people, African diaspora people - this Black History Month, instead of being one of the people ‘wishing it weren’t so’, I decided to do something about it. I created the Trailblazers format in July, selected my first four interviewees, put together a plan (through my production company Arawak Films) to fund, produce and deliver the programmes to the highest possible standard and then we approached the broadcaster - Community Channel.” “I’m determined to make a difference in the world. I am creating programmes that are highly entertaining and also a catalyst for transformation in people’s lives.” The interviewees: “For the first four interviewees of the series (George Harris, Alrick Riley, Precious Williams and Paul Crooks), I chose amazing people who I knew were huge achievers and who would also be generous enough to share the secrets of their successes, as well as the true stories of how they overcame obstacles, made mistakes and learned and grew to become who they are today!” The Arawak Films team: “Key Arawak Films team members include: Katie Segal (producer), Steve Smith (Director of Photography)” “The Arawak Films team we assembled for this project were really first rate. We put together a bunch of the best people who worked like crazy because they all believed in the Trailblazers project. They all knew we were working on something that was groundbreaking, something very special – there’s never been a show quite like this before on British television. When you see the shows you’ll know what I’m talking about!” Community Channel: “We (Arawak Films) are an up and coming production company with films sold to HBO, BBC and others. Producing this project for broadcast on the Community Channel has been a great experience. They were so supportive and enthusiastic about the project that it made all the difference. To have a broadcaster be that passionate was something very special indeed. Jane Stephenson (Creative Director, Media Trust) acted as Executive Producer for the Community Channel – she was the key point of contact between the production company (Arawak Films) and Community Channel. Jane’s faith and passion for these films really showed me how much the Community Channel live their motto 'Television that gives a damn'"
