RAE BENJAMIn
CEO + FOUNDER

Rae decided to transition into screenwriting after a career in graphic design. She was frustrated with the absence of transparency about how the entertainment industry works. Most jobs are unlisted, training is basically non-existent, and people don’t know where to begin. Even worse, misinformation is spread at an alarming rate. People easily take advantage of those with limited knowledge by charging for unhelpful advice and courses. For the Black community and other groups who have been historically shut out by traditional Hollywood “gatekeepers,” it can be even more difficult to build a network and learn vital information. Rae created In the Cut to help bridge the knowledge gap and spread information.

In January 2020, the first ITC live event sold out in a few hours. Since that date, the ITC community has grown to more than 8,000 artists and filmmakers across the globe. Rae’s goal is to provide vital information and create inclusive spaces for people to network and build with one another. ITC classes are low or no cost, and taught by respected BIPOC professionals currently working in the entertainment industry. Unlike similar offerings, ITC classes dedicate a significant portion of time to Q&A, so that all participants can get their questions answered in a meaningful way. Through research and experience, ITC has created a space where you can learn from real, industry professionals and receive actionable, thoughtful advice on how to advance your career.

Rae is a writer on THE WITCHER (Netflix) and served as co-writer and co-executive producer for an animated feature on Netflix. She is the co-creator of the animated web series, JULISA WHO? , currently in development with and available to watch on Instagram and YouTube. She is repped at UTA and Redefine Entertainment.

Al’Ikens was born and raised in Port au Prince, Haiti. He produces and directs digital content for ITC, including our upcoming Show Support Initiative to train individuals for entry-level roles in the writer’s room. He was the showrunner’s assistant on THE CHI (Showtime) and YELLOWSTONE (Paramount+). As a writer and director, his short films have been screened at a variety of festivals, most notably winning HBO’s Short Film Competition. His latest short, Tifi is a current selection at PAFF and the Toronto Black Film Festival.

Keith researches and writes content for our weekly newsletter, in addition to compiling resources to share with ITC followers across a variety of social media platforms. Keith is also a talented writer, actor, and director. As an artist, Keith has an equal passion for artistic expression and community engagement and advocacy. He is a Princess Grace Theater Award recipient for his show, THE BITTER GAME.

RESOURCES FOR ALL

ITC produces multiple events per month, carefully curated to bring value to budding budding Black creatives and POC communities. Through this site’s resources page, email newsletters, Instagram, and our networking community we strive to share advice, industry news, job postings, and more on a daily basis. If you have any specific questions, feel free to slide in our DMs or shoot us an email: info@inthecutla.org.

ITC CLASSES

• Not your typical online class. At least 50% of time is devoted to live Q&A so that you can get the knowledge you want.

• Network with professionals and like-minded creatives

• Practical strategies to help you on your career path

• Laidback and welcoming environment: no questions is too small!

• Unlimited replay access to our entire library of webinars with ITC Premium upgrade

• Smaller, month long courses to help you truly hone your craft