David Harewood Takes Helm As RADA’s First Black President, Defying Past Racism

David Harewood Takes Helm As RADA’s First Black President, Defying Past Racism

Renowned British actor, David Harewood, has made history by becoming the inaugural black president of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), marking a pivotal moment four years after the institution acknowledged its ‘institutional racism….READ ALSOOdumodublvck Advises Christian Youths Against Insulting Pastor Adeboye

Harewood, known for his roles in acclaimed films like “Blood Diamond” and hit television series such as “The Night Manager” and “Homeland,” will assume the presidency, succeeding Sir Kenneth Branagh after his nine-year tenure.

The announcement comes against the backdrop of RADA’s acknowledgment of institutional racism in 2020, accompanied by a commitment to address its shortcomings in response to the Black Lives Matter movement.

Reflecting on his appointment, Harewood, a RADA alumnus who graduated in 1987, expressed his profound delight, stating, “I am extremely delighted to be stepping into the role of President of RADA alongside the wonderful Cynthia Erivo.”

He further added, “As a former student at RADA and somebody who has enjoyed both the highs and experienced the lows of this industry, I feel I am ideally placed to help these young people navigate the sometimes difficult path from students to professionals, by bringing all the knowledge and experience I’ve learnt over a 30-year career.”

Joining Harewood in this historic moment, actress Cynthia Erivo, known for her upcoming role as the Wicked Witch of the West in the film adaptation of “Wicked,” assumes the position of RADA’s first vice president. Erivo, also a RADA alumna, emphasized the importance of a robust support system in arts education, underscoring the challenges students face.

The honorary roles of president and vice president at RADA serve as symbols of the institution’s values, with responsibilities including advocacy and raising awareness about the school’s mission.

Outgoing president Sir Kenneth Branagh expressed his pleasure at the transition, stating, “It has been a privilege to serve RADA, and it is a thrill to welcome the brilliant David Harewood and Cynthia Erivo to their new roles at the academy.”

RADA, located in central London, boasts a prestigious legacy, with its alumni including luminaries such as Joan