Then you need to meet Nessa Chileshe

As the founder of The Retreat Productions, Nessa is well versed in engendering empathy for unfamiliar characters, telling stories of those unable to tolerate the societal boxes they are being squeezed into; and adopting the Hit R.E.S.E.T Manifesto to ensure all of her productions are held to the highest degree of ethical standard.

“My films give people permission to unlock that dormant side of themselves that had tolerated the expectations of those around them.”

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Working with Nessa has resulted in a ripple effect of filmmakers willing to have open and honest conversations with each other, celebrating one another’s differences and has provided an ethical mandate to work together to give the underrepresented a voice on screen.

When this antsy world traveller isn’t crafting stories that give people permissions to live life on their own terms, you can find her up on stage performing stand up comedy.

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I first developed the Hit R.E.S.E.T manifesto during the latter part of my Masters degree. It was becoming obvious to me and to my lecturers that I had a real heart to see an ethical change happen in the Film and TV industry and its overall culture. We talk at length about the ethics of other industries but are only just talking about this for the screen industries.

The hit RESET Manifesto ensures that all parts of production are in good ethical standing. After months of conversations with industry professionals, hearing their devastating stories.

I found that In order to be considered a fully ethical production, a set must Hit R.E.S.E.T by being:
-Responsible
-Ethical
-Sustainable
-Enjoyable
-Teamwork oriented

I've created this with the intention of helping to lift up as many artists and filmmakers as possible to feel that they are able to work in a safe environment that nurtures all aspects of their being in the workplace. From the person making the teas and the coffees, to the person directing, everyone in a production is necessary and it’s high time that we began acting that way.

If you want more information on how you can incorporate this into your own productions, please email me at nessachileshe@gmail.com and I’d love to chat with you!