WOMEN OF IMPACT: DEFYING THE ODDS

Film production company YSP Media in association with executive producer Danielle Vassell are pleased to have worked together on the production of the short documentary Women of Impact: Defying the Odds, which follows five distinct but similarly inspirational journeys of young women of colour.

Driven by a desire to create a platform for young women of colour to share their stories of overcoming adversity in all walks of life, author and motivational speaker Danielle enlisted the services of film production company YSP Media and director-producer Christopher Bevan to produce and create a moving and enlightening short documentary. The film aired for the first time as a premiere on the digital channel Vox Africa UK (Sky 193) on Friday 22nd May with further airings later in the month. Executive producer Danielle Vassell was also able to secure a great opportunity for the film to begin streaming on the Afroland TV platform.

Bringing together a group of five extraordinary women, ‘Women of Impact: Defying the Odds’ shines a light on their diverse personal journeys. Surviving and thriving following a premature birth, becoming a powerful advocate for change in the foster care system after traumatic experiences growing up, and working through humiliation at school to achieving incredible heights in academia, these are just some of the moving and powerful stories of success against the odds. The experiences of a journalist carving her own path in a challenging industry, and an undergraduate from a religious family leading worship and providing guidance to others from disadvantaged backgrounds, each individual story is united by a common desire to achieve and share their wisdom with others.

Featured in the film are author and motivational speaker Danielle Vassell, academic and advocate for student development Christina Vassell, renowned journalist and broadcaster Sinai Fleary, the founder of Prosper not Perish and singer/songwriter Gabrielle Stapleton and author, consultant and advocate for foster care leavers Keeley Stephenson.

(Pictured: From Top L to Bottom R: Christina Vassell, Keeley Stephenson, Sinai Fleary and Gabrielle Stapleton)

Speaking about the production, executive producer Danielle Vassell said:

“I hope this short film will inspire other young women to overcome obstacles hindering them from fulfilling their dreams, and to also be a voice of hope through their stories and speak out to inspire others. Our hope is to inspire other young women to have a voice of courage and change in their society and celebrate many more inspirational journeys.”

YSP Media director Christopher Bevan added:

“Danielle’s passion and dedication to sharing her powerful story has been the driving force behind this project, and the incredible women she brought into the film have equally given us wonderful inspiration. YSP Media were delighted to have been brought onboard to produce this film and work with Danielle to create a platform to share these stories, and to hopefully spark a conversation going forward.”

About YSP Media

An award winning, RTS nominated film and video production company based in the heart of the East Midlands in Derby, YSP Media specialises in the development of high quality films, commercials, corporate promotional videos, documentaries and music videos. 

About Danielle Vassell

Danielle Vassell, is a motivational speaker, author and film creative.

Danielle’s book “My Journey of Hope” maps her personal story of her miraculous birth to adulthood. She recently co-authored last best-selling volume ‘20 Beautiful Women.’ A book for women to share their personal journeys of turning their pain into POWER.

Danielle was born, weighing just one pound 4 ounces (590g), Danielle defied, the grim prognosis report of doctors and specialists that gave her 0-5 percent chance of survival. After spending 5 months in hospital, she went home weighing 7 pounds. 

Danielle’s story, has been featured in various media’s such as newspaper and magazine articles, and has been interviewed on various radio stations, and television networks. Danielle has also spoken at a range of events such as universities, and various conferences making positive impact.

Danielle's passion, is to uplift others with hope and create platforms for others to share their personal stories to impact lives.

Contact Telephone: 07939144675 Email address: daniellevassell@outlook.com