“Just Like Me” introduces viewers to Black creatives who changed the game from behind the curtain. It stands as a guide for the creatives of tomorrow,” says the film’s director, TTK Harris.

The short documentary shares stories of triumph and inspiration from eight visionary black creatives who, against all odds, made it to the top of their game and are now throwing a line back to the next generation. And I’m happy to have played a part in the making of it. I’m even happier to announce join TTK in announcing its release!

“Sometimes it feels like you’re the only one discovering and carving out your path, without men and women who look like you, act like you, and are experiencing life like you,” noted Harris, who is also a well-respected painter and graphic designer.

“Hearing the success stories of Black creatives in the industry is rare. So, now’s the time.”

– TTK Harris, film director and graphic designer

A senior art director at Havas agency, TTK devised, directed, and designed all the visuals in the film during the first two years of the Covid 19 pandemic, leading a distributed team–with Havas supporting, and funding his efforts.

Supporting TTK’s “Just Like Me” film is just one of the steps that Havas is taking to build a more diverse, inclusive, and just workforce. According to the Association of National Advertisers (ANA), only 7.4% of entry-level marketers are Black, and Havas agency says they want to change that.

“Building DE&I into your company isn’t about reaching a specified destination—it’s an ever-evolving journey—and though we have a way to go, I’m proud of the progress we’re making,” said Myra Nussbaum, president, and CCO of Havas Chicago.

“While striving towards equity, it’s important that we acknowledge and respect the contributions Black creators make to culture. I’m proud we can shine a light on a few of those contributions and open the door for other Black creators to consider channeling their creativity and influence into advertising.”

TTK is especially thankful to:

• Justice Hall creative director and founder of The Fruit Mkt
• Aleesha Worthington, VP of Brand at Scotch Porter
• Dana Givens, painter, cordwainer and senior visual designer
• Julian Alexander, founder and creative director of Slang Inc.
• Professor Douglas Davis, author, and Principal of The Davis Group
• John “JP” Petty III, Wieden + Kennedy executive creative director
• Cey Adams, visual artist and founding creative director, Def Jam Recordings

The above creatives were featured alongside TTK, and they have his eternal gratitude for lending their time, likenesses, and personal stories to the film.

Stream “Just Like Me” at justlikeme-havas.com

-Chevon