Ronald Hinton
Founder
Ronald Hinton is a queer Afro-Puerto Rican actor, writer, producer, and impact creator. With a passion for storytelling from a young age, Ronald holds a BFA from Pace Performing Arts. He founded Shared Soil Productions and the Queer Voices: NYC Film Festival, based on a passion for centering and celebrating LGBTQIA+ filmmakers of color.
Through his art, Ronald aims to authentically represent the nuanced experiences of Queer-BIPOC individuals and break down barriers that limit their achievements in the industry. His approach to storytelling involves creating culturally rich and specific narratives that explore universal emotions, inviting everyone to see themselves in his work. Examples include work on Season 2 of 'Unshaming,' a podcast tackling shame through representation as well as the award-winning documentary 'My Hair, My Rules,' exploring men of color's emotional hair journeys. His latest work includes his web series 'NATIVES' which follows unapologetic, queer, native New Yorkers navigating adulthood in NYC's projects.
Ronald's community-oriented approach extends to intentional collaborations with Queer and BIPOC artists, providing them with lead creative opportunities. As he continues to inspire meaningful change and representation, Ronald remains dedicated to amplifying voices often marginalized in the film industry.
Brittany Franklin
Director of NATIVES Episodes 1 and 2 + Producer
Brittany Franklin, affectionately known as Britt, is an impact-driven Writer/Director, award-winning producer, and organizer. With a passion for equity, she founded Minorities in Film (MiFILM) in 2020, dedicated to empowering marginalized communities through media representation. Britt's work has been recognized with prestigious accolades, including the 2021 Sundance Uprising Grant Fund, Shondaland Women Directors Finalist, and the Barbara and Carl Zydney Grant for Artists with Disabilities. Her journey as a filmmaker has been featured in I-D magazine, where she showcased her commitment to challenging harmful depictions and amplifying underrepresented voices.
Born hearing and now proudly Hard of Hearing, Britt's narratives often explore themes of identity, trauma, and belonging. Brittany's creative aesthetic is marked by its moody atmospheres, surreal imagery, and dark humor, crafting narratives that delve into the depths of human experience with an unapologetic edge.
When she’s not working (which is rare these days), you can find her geeking over anime, spending time with her brothers, and figuring out how to make the perfect loaf of bread.
Darnell Dudley
Creative Producer
Darnell Dudley is an actor, writer, and overall creative based in the Bronx, New York. His artistic journey began with his debut short film, "Two Strikes," in 2016. His passion for creativity allows him to express himself fully, exploring new ideas and perspectives. Inspired by the vibrant energy of New York City streets and its inhabitants, his art is known for its collaboration, innovation, and profound expression.
Darnell recently stepped behind the camera as the Creative Producer with NATIVES the series. He is deeply passionate about creating art that resonates with the urban experience and amplifying the voices of the voiceless. His primary goal is to communicate stories that authentically represent his community. Bursting with ideas, Darnell is prepared to bring dreams and lessons to life through his words and art.