AudioDiaspora
AudioDiaspora
Andy Mundy-Castle
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-46:00

Andy Mundy-Castle

Breaking Barriers in TV: Race, Class, and Change

A WORD FROM OUR HOST

Christabel Nsiah-Buadi

Happy Friday, AD Fam!

First, I’m taking a break from interviewing folks for the next few weeks because I will be on my summer break! But worry ye not! Over the next four weeks, Priscilla Owusu of ‘Just Read It’ will share her Summer Book Picks with us! Tune in—listening to our ‘fabulous auntie vibes’ will be worth the listen, lol.

That said, I’m leaving you all with a banger of an interview before my break. I’m speaking with the founder of Doc Hearts and the Director of the MULTIPLE award-winning film, “White Nanny, Black Child,” Andy Mundy-Castle. His documentary reveals a piece of relatively hidden British and Diaspora history: Tens of thousands of children of West African heritage were fostered to white families in the mid-late twentieth century. Those practices shaped their identities and what modern Britain looks like today. 

The film has touched audiences everywhere, including audiences in Nigeria, where it opened people's eyes to the fact that for many people, ‘living abroad’ didn’t mean easier access to money or an easier life. Some sacrifices were made.

So I was excited to speak to the person who took such care in telling these stories and people, and Andy did not disappoint. We talked about his process, we talked about how he has managed to protect these stories from people who might see it only as' trauma porn,’ and he talked about why it’s SO important to understand if YOU are the right person to tell a story.

Enjoy the show, 

Christabel

On today’s Episode, Christabel sits down with BAFTA-winning creator Andy Mundy-Castle to discuss his groundbreaking documentary "White Nanny, Black Child." This intimate documentary shares the hidden stories of the 70,000 West African children who white British families fostered. 

Andy reveals the deeply personal inspiration behind his film and offers a fresh perspective on West African immigration, often overshadowed by the Caribbean Windrush generation. We uncover how these historical fostering practices have left an indelible mark on Black Britons' sense of identity and belonging.

We explore the critical importance of telling culturally rich stories that move beyond trauma and ensure they reflect the full spectrum of experiences. The conversation also dives into the challenges of breaking into the TV and audio industry, particularly the issues of classism and racism that persist even today.

Andy shares his journey, from winning a BAFTA to achieving a grand jury prize at the Afrif Festival in Nigeria, and the emotional impact of presenting his film there. We reflect on the importance of authenticity, the balance between artistic integrity and commercial realities, and the need to tell stories that resonate deeply with creators and audiences. Tune in for a compelling conversation that celebrates creativity, authenticity, and the enduring influence of historical migration patterns on Black identity.

Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF):

https://www.afriff.com/

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Where to connect with Andy Mundy-Castle


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