Issa Rae is phenomenal. For those of you who don't know her, she is an actress, writer, director, producer and creator of the Awkward Black Girl web series and "Insecure." This week, Issa took time out of her busy schedule to come Spelman, screen two episodes of "Insecure", and do a Q & A with us after and it was every bit of AH-MAY-ZIINNNGG. First off, the show is great. It showcases the various aspects of life two friends face. It covers everything we experience in our personal and professional lives, which is why it is so relatable. After this, she gave some great advice on us during the Q & A, where she answered questions from Ebony Magazine Lifestyle director, Tia Brown, as well as from Spelman students. Since I have the inside scoop, I'll share it with you!
Q: How did you get to this level?
A: Immerse yourself in it [the process]. Be patient and persistent, at the same time, keep doing the work and have faith in yourself. Tap into your community.
At this time, Issa also spoke about how this process began in college and she had amazing friends who were willing to help her in various capacities.
Q: What do you want us to see about Black, female, relations?
A: I don't think I want you to see anything. I am aware that this is not everyone's narrative. It's about showcasing a true friendship. It's a narrative that we don't see in media as of late.
Issa spoke to the fact that this is simply how she and her friends interact. She made the point that we (Black women) can be friends and we don't all always throw chairs and drinks at one another.
Q: Black love?
A: [We] tapped into it. [We] wanted to give it a three dimensional model, the writing team was 3 men to 7 women and the men kept it real. Often times women like to create the ideal man.
Q: Diversity?
A: You could be the only one of your kind in your work space. Be solid in yourself and speak up when you need to. Set Boundaries. Focus on what you want to do and your end goal.
Q: Balancing your passion and a sensible career?
A: I realized my parents aren't living my life, I'm living my life. I didn't care about sensible because sensible didn't make me happy.
Q: Young women of all races trying to find their voices in their respective fields?
A: Start here. You're at a great school with young women [who have different ideas]. And also the internet.
Q: What are the differences for you from Awkward Black Girl to now?
A: I grew up. I did things the indy way [then]. I started finding my own voice. It was introspective. I knew myself more. Tapping into that was the biggest challenge.
Q:How did it feel coming from there [L.A] and showing your city?
A: It felt amazing. It came full circle when I started seeing my face on billboards in my neighborhood. I wanted to highlight that neighborhood in way that hadn't been in in a long time.
Q: With your major, recent, success, how has that affected the way you see yourself and how do you stay grounded?
A: Building this from the ground up gives me the confidence and my friends keep me in check.
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