Deniese Davis

What do you do and why?

I am a film and television producer, and the COO of ColorCreative, a company I created alongside writer/producer/actress and star of the HBO series Insecure, Issa Rae. ColorCreative focuses on discovering and supporting emerging minority and women writers by providing a platform to get their work seen and heard, along with their career endeavors.

Ever since I was 16 years old, I have always wanted to be a part of stories through moving pictures that can help change the world. Through ColorCreative, my passion for this has only increased, and I take great pride in being an advocate for those who are marginalized or largely underrepresented in the current Hollywood space.

What change would you like to enact in the world?

I’d love to see a world in which we all played a part in contributing to the greater common good. Sometimes we get into a habit of thinking selfishly when it comes to what we want for ourselves — but as a world, we are really stronger together when we want something for all of us. The Paris Climate Agreement is a great example of this. I hope there will be more of these types of conversations in the near future (and hopefully the U.S. gets on board!).

Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

I was born and raised in Las Vegas. It’s a random fun fact, but you’d be surprised how many people I meet are taken back by this. My mother was also born and raised in Las Vegas, so my roots are pretty strong.

Why did you join IVY?

I joined IVY because I was looking to be a part of a community outside my common circle, which is mostly comprised of entertainment industry affiliates. The IVY community seemed like a great mix of people from all different areas who share the same commonalities of just driven, dope, and all-around good natured.

What has been your most memorable IVY Experience?

Definitely volunteering with After-School All-Stars in Los Angeles! It was so inspirational and moving to connect and mentor with the students and to learn more about the ASAS-LA program.