The Black Academy welcomes new leadership wishing to see ‘minorities creating their own tables’

A non-profit Canadian organization is fighting to promote Black excellence both on and off the screen, and they just got an industry veteran on board to catalyze their vision forward. 

The Black Academy stands as a beacon at the intersection of Black popular culture and social justice in Canada. Founded by Shamier Anderson and Stephan James, two accomplished actors hailing from Scarborough, the Academy is committed to combating anti-Black racism by cultivating spaces for celebration, networking, and professional advancement within the Black Canadian community.

The organization proudly announces the appointment of Gail Case as its new Executive Director. With a wealth of experience, Case previously served as the Director of Client Services at FACTOR (Foundation Assisting Canadian Talent on Recordings), a non-profit dedicated to fostering growth within the Canadian music industry. 

With over two decades of experience spanning the public and private sectors, including significant contributions to the media industry, Case brings a proven track record of championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in funding initiatives.

“Gail’s experience and skills dovetail perfectly with our goals for the organization,” Academy co-founder Anderson said in a statement. “Her business acumen, fundraising chops, and leadership skills will take The Black Academy to the next level as we look to broaden our impact. She’s perfectly poised to be a catalyst for lasting change.”

In an interview with Now Toronto, Case expressed her enthusiasm for the role, citing the inspiring community-oriented work of the Academy’s founders as a driving force behind her decision to join. “It’s what drew me to this cause,” she said.

Her immediate priority, she revealed, is securing multi-year financial support from governmental bodies, donors, or corporate sponsors. Specifically, she advocates for targeted allocation of funds to diverse community groups, emphasizing the economic, employment, and educational benefits for these communities.

The Black Academy is well-known for its Skills Development Program that offers immersive training experiences for Black Canadians in the screen industry with the goal of enhancing employability and fostering professional growth. 

Tailored to individual skills and career goals, participants receive on-the-job training and mentorship from industry experts in areas like audio, directing, producing, and more. 

“By providing industry wages, the Academy reduces financial barriers and increases accessibility,” Case added. 

She says the organization will be looking for new applicants for the program “very soon.” Selected participants gain real-world experience and on-screen credit on major productions like The Legacy Awards, “The Amazing Race Canada,” and The JUNO Awards. She encourages interested applications to stay tuned to their socials to apply. 

Excitement mounts for the upcoming third edition of The Legacy Awards, hosted by The Black Academy, with a live 90-minute special set to broadcast on CBC and CBC Gem this fall.

Looking ahead, Case highlights the organization’s four pillars that motivates them to keep moving forward: celebrate, connect, inspire, and educate. 

She also hopes to see “more diverse voices at decision-making tables and possibly, minority groups creating their own tables.”

“Gail’s a real force to be reckoned with and we couldn’t be happier to have her on board,” co-founder James added.