Kelly-Ann Jones didn’t choose research—research chose her. A self-described creative who started in television production and promo work, she found herself navigating the business side of the Canadian screen industry, eventually rising through the ranks at the Canada Media Fund (CMF). But despite her expertise, longevity, and passion, the path to leadership was far from linear.
“I had the knowledge. I had the relationships. But what I didn’t always have was visibility—and that matters,” Kelly-Ann reflects.
For over 18 years, Kelly-Ann worked behind the scenes, her insights shaping funding strategies and programming decisions. Yet, she often found herself unheard in meetings, watching her ideas gain traction only when echoed by others. Her department, research, was often overlooked, and as a Black woman in a predominantly white, male-dominated space, her expertise was easily underestimated.
A Seat at the Table, Backed by a Network
Joining the Black Screen Office’s Mid-Career Accelerator was a turning point. Kelly-Ann was one of the first participants to go through the program and became a blueprint for how the Accelerator could be adapted to meet mid-career professionals where they are.
The program gave Kelly-Ann something intangible yet essential: credibility with backing. Being part of an initiative explicitly designed to elevate Black professionals into decision-making roles gave her presence weight. Backed by a respected program, she started walking into rooms with conviction and a more secure sense of belonging, knowing she had the full support of her supervisor and program mentors.
Shifting Mindsets and Workplace Culture
Confidence. Advocacy. Visibility. These were the true deliverables of Kelly-Ann’s Accelerator experience. The structure of the program validated her voice and helped her shift from asking for permission to asserting her value.
“In research, if you do your job well, no one notices. But if something’s wrong, everyone will know,” she jokes. “It’s not a flashy department. You can go unseen even when you’re holding up the foundation.”
The Accelerator helped Kelly-Ann be seen not just for her work, but for her potential. She began participating in high-level decision-making meetings and earned the trust of organizational leaders. Her valuable insights and ideas were being recognized, positioning her to be viewed as a senior leader within the organization. Upon completion of the program, Kelly-Ann transitioned into a senior management position and leads a team of research professionals.
“Having access to mentors and a coach who had a wealth of experience in that area was invaluable. I have received inputs for how to organize my department’s workflow and how to recognize and encourage growth within my team.”
Living Authentically—and Leading Fully
Today, Kelly-Ann continues to lead with both conviction and compassion. She speaks openly about living with a disability, something she used to hide for fear of being overlooked. She has grown to embrace all aspects of her identity, including the intersections of race, gender, and disability, with pride.
“Now, I live my truth out loud. I know my value. I know the industry needs people like me at the table.”
Why the Career Accelerator Matters
Kelly-Ann’s story is a testament to why the BSO’s Mid-Career Accelerator exists: to ensure Black professionals aren’t just in the room, but influencing decisions, shifting cultures, and sparking change across the industry. It’s not just about professional development—it’s about reshaping power structures to make space for authentic leadership.
Know someone ready to lead?
The Mid-Career Accelerator accepts rolling submissions. Whether you’re a corporate professional seeking the next step in your journey, or you’re an employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace, the time to act is now.
Contact Natassia Morris, Business Manager for the BSO’s Research and Action Centre, at [email protected] to learn more about joining the Mid-Career Accelerator.
The Black Screen Office Mid-Career Accelerator is supported by:
Way to go, Kelly Anne!