Trishtan Williams is a multi award winning film and television director, showrunner, executive producer. She is out to make the next generation of women ballers with her newest project, “Starting 5.” The second season of this terrific documentary series will premiere on Netflix on October 16th. It makes powerful promises, primarily to remind us of the inspiring personal journeys of women in sports. Williams comes to the role with a deep résumé of prestigious awards and industry firsts. It’s her dream that her story will encourage young women from all walks of life.
Williams is far from new to the entertainment scene. She’s produced award-winning projects including an Emmy, Critic’s Choice Award, Tribeca Award and Webby Award. Her diverse body of work includes directing credits for popular programs such as “Why Not Us: Howard Golf,” “Supa Girlz,” “Love Is Blind,” “12 Dates of Christmas,” “America’s Next Top Model,” and “The Amazing Race.” Her time with “The Amazing Race” covered nine great seasons. During this period, she won an Emmy, establishing her legacy as a pioneer and chief architect of the entertainment industry.
Growing up in South Central Los Angeles, Williams overcame a tough environment filled with obstacles but never stopped dreaming. She has her childhood to thank for putting fire and grit in her belly. Williams recalls a pivotal moment from her childhood:
“It started on 110th and Figueroa [Street] when I used to water the grass and I used to tell myself stories that it’s going to get better.” – Trishtan Williams
Her path brought her to San Francisco State University, where she studied broadcast communications and dance. Her education within the privileged walls of the university laid the groundwork for her vibrant education in action. That solid base launched her to a distinguished career in motion pictures and television.
As a Black woman in an industry that is still majority white and male, Williams is a beacon and role model for those who need to see representation. She frequently cites Oprah Winfrey as a key inspiration in her life. Oprah perfectly embodies the empowerment, disarmament, and leadership that she has worked so hard to embody and emulate.
Williams addresses self-belief as well, a crucial factor to discuss as women continue to break ground along similar journeys. She expresses this sentiment clearly:
“You want to be able to walk into a room and no one can deny you. No one can say, you can’t have this or you can’t have that. And believe in yourself.” – Trishtan Williams
Her dedication to uplifting others reaches far beyond her work-related pursuits. Williams now happily recounts the trip with her son, 16-year-old Songhai Glover, born on Christmas Eve. Their tight-knit bond motivates both mother and son equally. Together, they fight the world’s struggles with tenderness, defiance, and beauty.
Besides “Starting 5,” Williams is developing another project, “Portalize,” with collaborator Adam Wilson. This development project is just the latest example of her commitment to opening up the story world inside the film and television space.
Trishtan Williams’ contributions stand out for their artistic merit. They have the potential to serve as an inspiration to young women. Through her powerful voice and her fierce determination, she’s still breaking barriers and changing what’s possible. As she prepares for the release of “Starting 5,” she hopes that her story encourages young women to pursue their dreams with confidence and conviction.
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