In collaboration with Dr Keisha Bruce (independent researcher) and Steph Tari Odu (Founder & Executive Producer of Born By A River), I have authored a landmark research report examining how access, wellbeing, and organisational culture can be meaningfully embedded into short‑form film production.

Open Frame: Embedding Opportunity and Access in Short Film Productions draws on the production of the upcoming short Wide Tooth Comb (dir. Eileen Gbagbo, 2026), the report reflects on a practice‑led approach used to test inclusive filmmaking from development through to post‑production. The report combines surveys, focus groups, and reflective conversations with 28 crew members, revealing how alternative working practices can strengthen collaboration, improve wellbeing, and support more equitable recruitment.

Key findings highlight the impact of shorter working days, pre‑shoot workshops, access riders, onboarding processes and the role of wellbeing facilitators measures that were found to be central in the creation of equitable and inclusive working environments within the film sector, and that were found to improve productivity and crew wellbeing. The report also identifies structural barriers facing Black, disabled, neurodivergent and Global Majority filmmakers, offering recommendations for sector‑wide change.

Funded by Camden Council’s Future Camden Fund, Open Frame provides a replicable model for production companies seeking to move beyond performative inclusion and towards embedded, sustainable practice.

The full report and downloadable PDF are available on the Born By A River website.