The Black Academy, co-founded by celebrated actors Shamier Anderson and Stephan James, has announced the appointment of Gail Case as its new Executive Director. This pivotal role will see Case overseeing all aspects of the organization, including fundraising and year-round programming initiatives, ensuring the academy’s continued success and growth. Her appointment is effective immediately.

Shamier Anderson, Co-CEO of The Black Academy, expressed his enthusiasm for Case’s appointment. “Gail’s experience and skills dovetail perfectly with our goals for the organization,” he said. “Her business acumen, fundraising chops, and leadership skills will take The Black Academy to the next level as we look to broaden our impact. She’s perfectly poised to be a catalyst for lasting change.”

Stephan James, also Co-CEO, echoed Anderson’s sentiments. “Gail has a rare combination of business and creative experience which will serve The Black Academy very well, but most importantly, she’s exceptionally committed to uplifting and empowering our community – and she’s proven that throughout her career. Gail’s a real force to be reckoned with and we couldn’t be happier to have her on board.”

Case brings over 20 years of experience from both the public and private sectors to her new role. Most recently, she served as the Director of Client Services at FACTOR (Foundation Assisting Canadian Talent on Recordings), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to fostering the growth of the Canadian music industry. At FACTOR, Case managed the allocation of $14 million in funding and oversaw the adjudication process for Canadian artists and record labels. Her tenure was marked by a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, significantly enhancing the diversity of funding recipients.

In addition to her extensive background in media and project management, Case is an Executive MBA candidate at the Ivey Business School (Western University). Her dedication to community empowerment is evident through her volunteer work with organizations such as the Ontario Street Ball League (OSBL), which provides at-risk youth with opportunities to develop team-building skills. From 2006 to 2019, she led the Canadian chapter of the National Association of Black Female Executives in Music and Entertainment (NABFEME), which focuses on advancing education, equality, inclusion, and equity for women in the industry.

“This role allows me to combine my experience in the public and private sectors and my volunteer work with my lifelong passions: advocating for change and seeing my community inspired, uplifted, and celebrated on a national level,” said Case. “Shamier and Stephan exemplify Black Excellence and I’m extremely impressed with the accomplishments and aspirations of The Black Academy. My top priority is to secure sustainable funding to ensure we can continue growing our programming.”

With Gail Case at the helm, The Black Academy is poised to achieve new heights, continuing its mission to celebrate and uplift the Black community in Canada. The organization expects a future of increased impact and expanded programming under her leadership.