Destinee Steele, a highly experienced individual with a Master of Fine Arts degree in wig and makeup design and serving as the CEO of The Beauty Menagerie, LLC, embarked on a transformative endeavor as a JEDI trainer. However, the JEDI she embraced was not from the realm of science fiction but rather a Just Equity Diversity and Inclusion initiative intended to revolutionize the theatre industry.
Embarking on a JEDI Training Journey
Drawing on her extensive expertise and passion for fostering inclusivity, Steele embarked on this unique journey to address longstanding disparities within theatre production, particularly in hair and makeup departments. By championing the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion, she sought to create a more welcoming and supportive environment where all individuals, regardless of their background or identity, could thrive and contribute their talents. Through her pioneering efforts, Steele aimed to redefine industry standards and pave the way for a more equitable and representative future in theatre.
Understanding the Need for JEDI Training
Destinee Steele identified a significant challenge within theatre hair and makeup departments: BIPOC performers frequently encountered difficulties due to inadequate training among artists in managing textured hair and makeup for darker skin tones. When the COVID-19 pandemic halted her touring role as a wig and makeup supervisor, Steele seized the opportunity to confront this industry-wide gap head-on. Recognizing the critical need for change, she embarked on a mission to provide comprehensive training and support to ensure that all performers, regardless of their background, received the attention and expertise they deserved. By addressing this longstanding issue, Steele aimed to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment within the theatre community, paving the way for a future where diversity and representation are celebrated and valued.
Pioneering JEDI Training for the Theatre Industry
Destinee Steele’s appointment as a JEDI trainer stemmed from an urgent need for change within the theatre industry, with NETworks Tours™ taking proactive steps to address issues of equity and inclusion. Recognizing the importance of proper training in meeting the needs of BIPOC talent, the company enlisted Steele as their inaugural JEDI trainer/consultant.
In her role, Steele embarked on a series of extensive travels, conducting training sessions aimed at equipping wig and makeup supervisors with the necessary skills and knowledge to support BIPOC performers effectively while on tour. By spearheading this initiative, Steele played a pivotal role in driving systemic change within the industry, ensuring that all talent received equitable treatment and support regardless of their background or identity.
Advocating for Performers and Empowering Supervisors
As a JEDI trainer, Destinee Steele assumed multiple roles, serving as a advocate for actors, a consultant for designers, and a valuable resource for supervisors within the theatre industry. Her multifaceted approach allowed her to address a wide range of issues and concerns, ensuring that BIPOC performers received the attention and support they rightfully deserved.
Steele’s role went beyond merely providing training; she acted as a bridge between different stakeholders, facilitating difficult conversations and fostering collaboration to address systemic challenges. By serving as a voice for underrepresented performers, she worked tirelessly to amplify their needs and concerns, advocating for greater inclusivity and representation within the industry.
Through her dedication and expertise, Steele played a pivotal role in driving positive change and fostering a more equitable and supportive environment for BIPOC talent in the theatre community. Her efforts continue to inspire and empower others to embrace diversity and champion inclusion in all aspects of their work.
Dispelling Hair & Makeup Misconceptions
Destinee Steele tackled prevalent misconceptions surrounding hair and makeup in the theatre industry, emphasizing the necessity of personalized approaches tailored to each performer’s unique needs. By advocating for individualized solutions, she aimed to ensure that BIPOC talent received the attention and care they deserved, debunking myths surrounding product choices and hair prep techniques in the process.
Central to Steele’s approach was the cultivation of trust between performers and supervisors, recognizing that effective communication and mutual respect are essential for successful collaboration. Through open dialogue and transparent discussions, she sought to bridge the gap between artists and performers, fostering a supportive environment where everyone felt valued and understood.
By challenging outdated beliefs and promoting inclusive practices, Steele strives to create a more equitable and inclusive landscape within the theatre industry, where every individual’s beauty and identity are celebrated and respected. Her advocacy serves as a catalyst for positive change, inspiring others to embrace diversity and champion inclusion in their work.
Empowering Actors, Designers, and Supervisors
- Inclusive Training Sessions: Destinee Steele organized training sessions that welcomed individuals from various backgrounds, including actors, supervisors, and designers, fostering a learning and growth environment;
- Emphasis on Representation: Steele highlighted the changing demographics within theatre casts and stressed the necessity for increased inclusivity among industry professionals;
- Diverse Participants: The sessions brought together a wide range of students, creating a collaborative space where differing viewpoints and experiences enhanced the learning experience;
- Collaborative Environment: The training promoted a cooperative atmosphere where open dialogue and the exchange of insights allowed participants to gain a more profound comprehension of diversity and inclusion’s significance in theatrical production.
Moreover, Steele’s advocacy for increased representation among designers and supervisors echoed a broader call for systemic change within the industry. By amplifying underrepresented voices and championing diversity at every level, she strives to create a more equitable and inclusive theatre community where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive and contribute their unique talents.
Inspiring Theatre Students to Embrace Learning and Opportunity
Destinee Steele’s counsel to budding theatre practitioners revolves around the paramount significance of perpetual learning, adaptability, and seizing every opportunity that comes their way. She urges aspiring professionals to extract valuable lessons from each encounter and underscores the transformative potential of channeling one’s passion into a gratifying vocation.
Encouraging a mindset of lifelong learning, Steele champions the notion that growth occurs through embracing challenges and embracing change. By fostering a culture of curiosity and resilience, she empowers individuals to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the theatre industry with confidence and grace.
Furthermore, Steele instills in students the belief that their passion holds the key to unlocking a fulfilling career path. By harnessing their talents and staying open to new possibilities, aspiring theatre professionals can embark on a journey of self-discovery and creative fulfillment, ultimately realizing their dreams in the vibrant world of theatre.
Conclusion: Championing Equity and Inclusion in Theatre
Destinee Steele’s journey as a JEDI trainer epitomizes her unwavering dedication to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion in the theatre realm. By pioneering innovative training programs, she endeavors to dismantle barriers and cultivate a supportive environment where BIPOC talent can thrive. Steele’s efforts extend beyond mere advocacy; they represent a transformative force driving towards a more equitable and representative future for the theatre industry.
Through her commitment to empowering performers, educating supervisors, and advocating for systemic change, Steele is actively shaping a landscape where diversity is celebrated and embraced. Her vision for a brighter and more inclusive theatre community serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring artists and seasoned professionals alike. With each training session and conversation, Steele reinforces the importance of equity and inclusion, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of the theatrical world.