At just 13 years old, Nia Thompson is making history as the youngest Executive Producer in Hollywood. With her role in the upcoming film One Mic, Nia is not only breaking barriers but also shaping the future of Black storytelling. In an exclusive interview with I Love Us, Nia opened up about her vision for the future and what it means to represent young Black women in entertainment.
A Milestone Rooted in Representation
For Nia, becoming the youngest Executive Producer in Hollywood is a powerful statement about the importance of representation. “Thank you so much! I still can’t believe it myself. I often feel like I must be dreaming!!” she shared with I Love Us. “Representation matters, and I truly believe that for us to see stories that reflect who we are, who we want to be, and who we can be, we have to be willing to tell them ourselves.”
Nia’s journey to this groundbreaking role didn’t happen overnight. From a young age, she knew she wanted to be a part of the world of entertainment, both in front of the camera and behind it. In fact, her ambitions were clear as early as age seven, when she gave her first interview with Access Hollywood. “I told them I wanted to be an actor, singer, dancer, and civil rights activist,” she recalled. Today, she stands by that commitment, using her platform not only to entertain but to uplift and advocate for her community.
As the Executive Producer of One Mic, Nia sees this opportunity as a continuation of her activism. “Activism means we use our voices to create and advance equity and opportunity. I’ve had the privilege of doing this with my projects as an actor and singer, but working as an executive producer on One Mic allows me to ensure inspiring storytelling throughout the entire filmmaking process.”
A Path of Determination
Nia’s involvement in One Mic came about after she starred as Young Nala in The Lion King on Broadway, an experience that would introduce her to the film’s creators, Supreme and Hezues. “In our first meeting with the SIC team, my mom—who is also my manager—shared with them that I was capable of contributing in various ways to the filmmaking process as an actor and behind the camera,” Nia explained. Supreme and Hezues, impressed by her talents both onstage and off, were eager to work with her on their new project.
Despite her early success, Nia has faced challenges along the way, particularly the internal battle of self-doubt. “The biggest challenge has to be self-doubt,” she candidly admitted. But she draws strength from trailblazers like Marsai Martin, another young Black Executive Producer who has shown that age is no barrier to success. “Inspired by the example of Marsai Martin, I think I can do it. We are, and with God’s grace and my growth, this opportunity will succeed!”
Shaping the Future of Representation
For Nia, One Mic is also a chance to open doors for others and continue advocating for greater representation in the industry. As she pointed out during her conversation with I Love Us, this role is bigger than just herself. “Mrs. Shirley Chisholm said, ‘If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair!’” Nia echoed this sentiment, explaining how she plans to use her position not only to shine herself but to help create opportunities for others.
“Representation matters, so I am looking forward to doing what I love starring in this project—but also creating opportunities for us to be represented and shine at all levels of this project,” she said. With her dual role as a star and producer, Nia is actively working to ensure that Black talent is recognized, uplifted, and celebrated on and off the screen.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Young Women
Nia’s rapid rise to success is a source of inspiration for countless young Black girls who look up to her. When asked what advice she would give to others aspiring to follow in her footsteps, Nia shared: “Don’t let anyone dim your light. You being you is the only way you can truly shine. You were beautifully made in the image of God with a dominion gift that may or may not have been discovered yet, but it is in you, and nobody can take that away!”
Her message speaks directly to the heart of what she’s been able to accomplish—staying true to herself, embracing her unique talents, and never letting others define her path.
Looking Ahead: One Mic and Beyond
As One Mic prepares to enter production, Nia is brimming with excitement. “After experiencing One Mic, I hope people walk away inspired to discover the power of the gift that God has put in them to create the life of their dreams,” she shared. It’s clear that for Nia, this project is an opportunity to inspire others to reach their full potential.
Nia highlighted that her work on One Mic is about shifting the narrative in Hollywood and pushing for more diverse voices and stories to be heard. As the youngest Executive Producer, she’s proving that young people—especially young Black women—deserve a seat at the table and a hand in creating the future they want to see.
A Bright Future for Black Storytelling
With One Mic on the horizon, Nia’s passion, drive, and talent promise to leave a storied mark on Hollywood. Her story is a reminder that with hard work, self-confidence, and a commitment to representation, young Black women can—and will—change the face of entertainment.
As I Love Us proudly shares her journey, we’re honored to spotlight the achievements of a young leader who is just getting started. Keep your eyes on Nia Thompson—this is only the beginning of what’s sure to be a long and impactful career.
Cover photo: Nia Thompson: Hollywood’s Youngest Executive Producer at 13 / Photo Courtesy of Nia Thompson
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