“A lack of representation doesn’t just affect children; it affects their parents too. When TV screens and billboards are populated almost entirely by White children with a token ethnic minority child, it can feel like we’re not getting anywhere in our fight for diversity.” – Selma NichollsI recently wrote about attending the European Premier of Black Panther and another private screening featuring a Q&A with the film’s Director Ryan Coogler. At the Private Screening set up by We Are Parable, I met an astounding woman named Selma Nicholls. I saw these giant photos of children recreating photos from the Black Panther posters and it was amazing. These young Black kids were with a casting agency called ‘Looks Like Me.’ [caption id="attachment_6626" align="alignright" width="347"]
‘Looks Like Me’ Founder, Selma Nicholls & daughter Riley-Anne[/caption]
Selma founded this talent and casting agency after noticing just how underrepresented kids of color were in fashion and advertising content. Selma didn’t know what to do when her three-year old daughter asked her for White skin and straight hair just like her friends and favorite cartoon characters. She didn’t change her mind until she saw Quvenzhane Wallis in her role as Annie. Then she felt it was beautiful to be a naturally curly young Black girl with an afro. It is hard for our children to believe they can do anything when they are not properly represented in billboards, magazine, in the theater or on the big screen.
‘Looks Like Me’ shows Selma’s commitment to increasing inclusivity, visibility, and employability of underrepresented minorities in advertisements and the arts. The talent agency is located in North London with a diverse range of Minority children aged 10 months – 10 years old.
At the screening Ryan Coogler was blown away by the photos of the children that were inspired by the film he wrote and directed. So inspired that he asked Selma for her autograph. The Black Panther photos of the children have been shared on social media by Lupita Nyongo, Letitia Wright and other members of the cast. Selma has created a talent and casting agency that represents the future generation of culture and pride and hero in us all.
‘Looks Like Me’ Offers…
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Parents the security of positively representing their children…
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Children a range of fun and meaningful experiences through creative workshops and possible assignments…
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Clients exceptional children with fantastic well prepared parents, creating a hassle free experience…
Connect With ‘Looks Like Me’
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