Amma Asante Speaking Fee: $20,000 to $30,000

Amma Asante is a celebrated British screenwriter and director, renowned for her unique storytelling and compelling films. Born in London to Ghanaian parents, Asante was introduced to the world of the arts at a young age. Her passion for storytelling was evident when she attended the Barbara Speake Stage School. Initially, she began her career in front of the camera, featuring as an actress in BBC’s “Grange Hill.” However, her heart was set on creating stories rather than merely performing them. Asante's transition to filmmaking marked a significant turning point in her career. Starting off as a screenwriter, she was involved with BAFTA’s New Writers Scheme, which became a platform for her film debut. Her first feature film, "A Way of Life" (2004), earned her critical acclaim, winning the BAFTA Carl Foreman Award for Special Achievement by a British Writer, Director, or Producer. The film was a gritty exploration of themes like racism and survival, highlighting Asante's interest in socially relevant narratives. In 2013, Asante directed “Belle,” which further cemented her reputation as a powerful storyteller. The film, based on the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, a mixed-race woman raised in British aristocracy, was praised for its intelligent and sensitive portrayal of race and class in 18th-century England. It showcased Asante’s ability to intertwine personal stories with larger historical contexts, blending rich visuals with nuanced performances. Asante’s continued success with films like "A United Kingdom" (2016) speaks to her commitment to bringing underrepresented stories to the forefront. In this film, she tackled the real-life romance between an African prince and a British woman, once again weaving personal and political threads into a resonant story. Her dedication to diversity and representation in cinema resonates across her body of work, making her an influential figure in the industry. Outside her filmmaking career, Amma Asante is a sought-after keynote speaker, often discussing themes of representation, diversity, and the power of storytelling. Her insights highlight her journey through the industry and her steadfast dedication to authenticity and meaningful narratives. Asante continues to inspire future generations of filmmakers and audiences alike, through both her profound cinematic contributions and her advocacy for inclusive narratives.