Here and Ready was started in the fall of 2019 as a private group for Black actresses, the goal was simple: create a safe space to share resources and openly dialogue about our specific needs and challenges. Sparked by word of mouth and stay at home closures, the group exploded and the mission expanded. 

Across 2020 and 2021, we worked to increase visibility and industry access for our members while continuing to act as a networking and resource collective. Programs included casting director workshops, skill enrichment seminars and private meet and greet events with the Casting Society of America’s Equity in Entertainment Committee. We also launched a public database website for anyone seeking Black actressses the ability to quickly discover and hire talent as well as post casting notices for free!

Now, thanks to a grant from Tamika D. Mallory and the city of Los Angeles, a new Here and Ready website is on the way. This public database website will upgrade the visitor’s user-experience to quickly refine searches, watch demo reels and directly contact talent.

And for our members, the new site’s benefits will include:

• an expanded event calendar with event registration
• a library with replay access to our past seminars
• commenting and posting forums
• ticket offers and casting boards
• a Black Actress Yellow Pages of the businesses, products and resources recommended and shared by our members

With more benefits to come!

We look forward to sharing the new site and the Black Actress Yellow Pages with you!