Welcome to our newest hires!
Since its inception, The Loop Lab has not only striven to empower young people of color but women as well. As one of the often-underrepresented groups in the media arts industry, we recognize that the inclusion of women in storytelling lends itself to the greater formation of a more equitable society. We could not hope to fully support this effort without equal representation and empowerment within our own team. In recognition of last month’s Women’s History Month, the theme of which was fittingly Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and our organization’s own growth, we are delighted to welcome the following three women to The Loop Lab staff:
Who are these individuals? What brought them to our organization? Find out below in the brief series of questions each one answered. Thank you to all three for their willingness to be featured - we’re happy to have you join our team!
Q: What drew you to The Loop Lab?
Miranda: The Loop Lab’s mission is what drew me into this role: to uplift the voices of underestimated storytellers and guide them through the technical and personal challenges of this industry. I believe in creating media for a better world, and I believe in the importance of encouraging those who have been overlooked to share their truths. We have so much to learn from them, and so much growth to obtain as a society in terms of our collective belonging, empathy and support. As an independent filmmaker and MFA film scholar, my greatest goal is to use my creative gifts, industry knowledge and leadership position for the betterment of my community and the good for humanity. I am so lucky that The Loop Lab is the perfect home, incubator, and team for me to accomplish all of that and then some.
Manuela: Discovering The Loop Lab during my final year at BU was like stumbling upon a hidden gem in a sea of academia. In a Media Entrepreneurship class taught by Chris Hope, the vision of The Loop Lab resonated deeply with me – particularly the notion that media possesses this incredible ability to shape narratives and, consequently, lives. As a Brazilian woman, I've often felt the absence of stories like mine in the spotlight of creative discourse. Learning of The Loop Lab's mission to redefine this narrative was an instant call to action for me. I simply had to be a part of it.
Yummi: At The Loop Lab, I can utilize my expertise to help actualize a more equitable world, empowering underserved communities, especially women who are in need of support and opportunities.
Q: What is one piece of advice you would give to young women interested in pursuing a career in the media arts?
Miranda: Remember that you are human, and so is everyone else. You are your own strongest advocate, and even if you are also your own worst critic, that doesn’t have to hold you back. You are the beholder of so much beauty, and capable of so much positive growth, strength and transformation. Gentleness is not weakness, nor is knowing how to choose your battles. You can’t change the world in a day, nor can you change one person’s opinion of you…maybe ever. You are going to be underestimated. When you are, take a deep breath. Grit your teeth. Prove them wrong. If they still don’t see your worth, don’t despair – someone else will. And you can always scream at home.
Manuela: If I could impart just one piece of wisdom to aspiring young women venturing into the realm of media arts, it would be this: Embrace your authenticity unapologetically. As someone who's still navigating this path myself, I understand how this is easier said than done.Society often overlooks the fact that women are just as adept in technical domains compelling us to constantly strive to prove them wrong and consequently to believe that's our sole contribution. However, it's crucial to recognize that our true value extends far beyond skill sets. Our stories, quirks, passions, and idiosyncrasies enrich the creative landscape in profound ways. Don't shy away from them. And please, resist the urge to apologize for being unabashedly yourself. Own your successes, learn from your missteps, but never diminish the essence of who you are.
Yummi: My advice is for them to embrace both their creativity and resilience. In a field as challenging and competitive as the media arts, it's crucial to remain composed, maintain mental strength, and recognize the immense power within themselves. Countless inspiring women have paved the way, and by tapping into their own "her-power," they can overcome any obstacle.
Q: Who are two women that have had a significant influence on your life and why?
Miranda: My mother and Greta Gerwig. My mother, because so much of her support, sweetness and unconditional love made me the gentle, kind, strong, artistic, and intelligent creator and animal-lover that I am today. Greta, because she demonstrated with Barbie (2023) what I always knew to be true (and what everyone told me was impossible): that you can make a film that is smart yet silly, piercing yet fun, critical yet dreamy, and educational yet entertaining. I knew and believed in this secret sauce, but the world had yet to provide me with enough opportunity for my own work or a relatable role model to prove my critics wrong. Now I have a role model, and she is a woman. She is proof that I can do it, too.
Manuela: My mother stands as the cornerstone of influence in my life. Despite societal misconceptions that diminish the role of stay-at-home mothers, she defied every stereotype. Raising four empowered daughters while pursuing her own passions and supporting her community, she epitomizes resilience and grace. Her ability to evolve continuously, embracing both her nurturing side and her entrepreneurial spirit, inspires me endlessly. Equally influential are my sisters. Despite our divergent paths, we've always shared a bond rooted in unwavering support and belief in each other's potential. Witnessing their triumphs across various professional domains has been nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Yummi: My mom is absolutely a cornerstone in my life. She has instilled in me a sense of self-esteem, resilience, and an unwavering hope for the future. Secondly, Ruth Bader Ginsburg has been a profound inspiration. Graduating from the same school as her was an honor, and her dedication to justice and equality has always motivated me to strive for greatness and take pride in my identity as a woman.
Q: How do you see yourself (or dream you could) advocating for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in your role with The Loop Lab?
Miranda: I am going to advocate for it with everything I have. I am a Latina woman, but no matter how many bridges I find between my own and another’s experiences, I must have enough humility to respectfully and consistently acknowledge the major differences that separate us: the wide, mysterious and precious river that is another person’s life and perspective. I am excited to see all of the ways that I will grow as an upstander with The Loop Lab, and I will do my best to represent our values as a model to other production/media houses in the Boston area.
Manuela: Advocating for women and their stories isn't just a passion; it's a fundamental aspect of who I am. In my role at The Loop Lab, I aspire to uphold and advance the company's mission of empowering women to reclaim their narratives with confidence. From mentoring aspiring creatives to championing diverse voices in our projects, I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every woman feels seen, heard, and celebrated.
Yummi: As a Corporate Development Fellow, I aspire to leverage my storytelling skills to effectively communicate The Loop Lab's vision of a more equitable world to friends and supporters within and outside of the organization's network.
Q: What is your favorite color?
Miranda: Wine (the color, not the drink – although I enjoy that too)
Manuela: Easy peasy! My heart beats for the color green, in all its glorious shades—from lush emerald to vibrant neon. Always has been and always will be.
Yummi: My favorite colors are white, grey, and blue. I find it difficult to rank them, as each holds significant memories and emotions for me.
Q: What do you love to do outside of work?
Miranda: Whenever I can, I continue to write, direct and edit my own films. I also love to draw, act, hike, and curl up on the couch with my beloved husband and cat.
Manuela: Indulging in clichés is my guilty pleasure, and I wear it proudly. Whether I'm diving into the pages of a romance novel or losing myself in the kaleidoscopic world of cinema and television, I relish the escapism they offer. From the whimsical realms of romantasy to the gripping dramas of Shondaland, my tastes know no bounds, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Yummi: Outside of work, I find fulfillment in various activities. I enjoy intense strength training and cardio exercises at the gym, which help me unwind and destress. I frequently solo visit museums and galleries, as it is a perfect me-time. I also love exploring different foodie spots and trying different cuisines with friends, immersing myself in the culinary scene of the city.
You can reach the three, respectively, at miranda@thelooplab.org, yumo@thelooplab.org, and execassistant@thelooplab.org. If you see them around, feel free to say hello!