Behind the Lens and In The Director’s Chair: Why Diverse Talent and Their Stories Deserve the Spotlight

Wesley ‘Wes’ Wood has been working as a filmmaker, director, executive producer, and author for over a decade. His story of grit, entrepreneurship, and creativity all began in Cleveland, Ohio. Born into a Jamaican and Trinidadian family, Wes’s upbringing was exciting, soulful, and full of culture. Since he was a kid, his parents showed him the importance of hard work, dedication, and compassion. Wes’s father was also a lover of the arts. Whenever possible, he would film his surroundings, Wesley, his sister, or his wife. As a young kid, Wes was intrigued by his father’s love for the camera and later became an enthusiast. The idea of capturing, curating, and showcasing funny, beautiful, or raw scenes became Wes’s passion.

Wes’s West Indian heritage, highlights how this culture has contributed immeasurable value and innovation globally. From music, fashion, art, or even business, West Indian culture across the United States have pioneered the idea of ‘cool’. Their creations, traditions, and unique qualities have inspired billions of people to appreciate their offerings. As 1st generation americans redefine the cinematic narrative and weave cultural diversity into the fabric of  the film industry, Wes is one such individual that is shining a light on untold stories. When someone else controls the storyline, whether in feature films or games and media, the true realities of life as 1st generation Americans can be glossed over. WesWood, a culturally diverse filmmaker and entrepreneur, is shining a light on untold stories. By leveraging the universal language of film alongside eye-catching visuals, Wes ensures that businesses, celebrities, actors, and even ordinary people in underserved communities can share their stories on their terms.

Despite growing up worlds away from film hubs like Los Angeles and New York City, Wes made things work. He even decided to pursue the craft independently without schooling. While this was partially tied to financial constraints, Wes ultimately decided to leave college soon after starting. In his mind, he could either make his dreams happen now or learn at the pace school wanted to teach him.

Few people are blessed with success, especially if they’re without mentors and an abundance of opportunities. Yet, Wes made things work. As a big dreamer with an equally large heart, he followed what felt right.

“I have always been a big dreamer, and everything I do has to come from the heart,” Wes says. “I do film because I enjoy the craft, but I also love what healing and assistance I can give someone by letting them know that their story is important no matter who they are."

Wes’s secret to success is simple. Belief, intuition, and a whole lot of hustle. This approach has taken him to great heights despite his humble beginnings. Wes founded Perspective Filmworks in 2015 to offer development, production, and distribution services. Since then, he has created thousands of commercials, short and feature films, documentaries, and content for nonprofits.

Despite Wesley’s achievements, he still feels that diverse stories need to be told and that diverse talent in the entertainment industry needs better opportunities. A report has already showcased that Black talent in TV and film could provide an additional $10 billion annually if racial inequities were resolved. By focusing on culturally diverse stories, collaborating with aspiring Black filmmakers, and simply doing this work, Wesley is giving back to his community. While he has already done so much, the young creative is planning to launch the Perspective Film Fund for financing film projects and the Perspective Is Now foundation that offers pro-bono work to local nonprofits.

Wesley’s story of success, creativity, and entrepreneurship reinforces the unique flair and triumphant nature of a culturally diverse creator. As he hopes to expand his impact throughout Cleveland and in other areas, Wesley encourages the youth to follow their dreams in film and TV regardless of the obstacles in front of them.