Meet KEITH WHITE | Media and Tech Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with KEITH WHITE and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi KEITH, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind my success and the success of the AfroAnimation brand was identifying two big voids in the market. The first was a disconnect between black animators. No summit or conference had ever been organized for black animators to meet and get to know each other and to discuss important topics relevant to the vertical. Also, Hollywood animation studios needed to increase their diverse talent pool. Creating a platform that served as the bridge to connect diverse creators to one another and to connect this growing creative community with Hollywood animation studios would have a positive impact in pushing represetnation forward. Another factor in our success was our amazing team’s ability to execute this vision and launch AfroAnimation in just three months for our first online Summit in 2021, with 1700 attendees.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

AfroAnimation was created to bring important changes to the creator economy by connecting diverse and multicultural creative talent to movie studios, television networks, new media, and gaming companies – to get jobs, discuss important issues, gain industry insights, network, and celebrate.

I think what sets me apart from others is my ability to foresee voids in the marketplace, pain-points and opportunities early. I am most proud of watching young up-and-coming creatives who came through the AfroAnimation internship program get hired by companies like Sony Pictures Animation and Nickelodeon.

How did I get to where I am today? By making huge personal sacrifices, remaining on the entrepreneur journey, and persistence. Along the way, I’ve learned how to move quickly and execute big ideas, how to collect and incorporate feedback to refine that idea, and how to communicate clearly to customers with compelling, meaningful solutions that solve the customer’s problem and eye catching PowerPoint decks.

What do I want the world to know about me and the AfroAnimation brand? I love collecting paintings and for the first time, I commissioned artwork for our new FRWD Awards. Toki Awonuga is a Los Angeles-based Afro-Futurist artist and his work is simply amazing. I can’t wait to commission more original artwork from other artists.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

In LA, I’d start by taking my friend to the Griffith Observatory for its stunning city views and maybe catch a planetarium show. Then, we’d head to the Getty Center for its world-class art collection and beautiful gardens. A stroll down Rodeo Drive for some upscale shopping would be next on the agenda.

For breakfast, we’d check out Meet Her at the Bar on LeBrea, and then The Hideaway for some great weekend lunch. For a unique rooftop experience, Mama Shelter Hollywood is a great choice, or the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills heated rooftop. We could also enjoy the breathtaking views and delicious cuisine at Castaway Hilltop restaurant in Burbank. For a more relaxed vibe, the Great White restaurant on Melrose or Eataly on Santa Monica Blvd offer fantastic options. We’d wrap up with a visit to The Grove, enjoying a glass of wine at an outside cafe. Each of these spots offer a different glimpse into LA’s culture and charm.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Dennis Roberts, the founding Chairman Emeritus and Senior Managing Director of The McLean Group, LLC, is a distinguished figure in the world of middle market investment banking. With decades of experience, he has guided clients through complex mergers and acquisitions with unparalleled expertise. Roberts is also a respected author, known for his insightful books on the subject. Beyond his professional achievements, he is committed to philanthropy, supporting initiatives in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. Roberts’ legacy of integrity and leadership continues to inspire those in the finance industry and beyond.

Website: www.afroanimation.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoogatv/

Image Credits
Toki Awonuga for the FRWD Awards artwork image