Naomi Osaka has been involved in many new and exciting projects in the past few years, and they’ve expanded past just being the four-time grand slam champion. On June 21, she unveiled her latest and greatest business venture via her Instagram – a production company in partnership with legendary basketball player Lebron James.
“I’ve built my career taking a different approach than those around me, and because my journey has been so different, it’s opened my eyes to all the incredible stories out there that aren’t getting told. Stories that are global, about a variety of cultures and points of view, about important social issues. That’s why I’m launching Hana Kuma, a media platform focused on stories that are culturally specific but universal. Stories that are bold and playful like me.”
She continued, “I’m incredibly proud to be building a business that is a true reflection of me, and I couldn’t think of a better partner than @kingjames to do this. I’m so excited to do this with him, @mavcarter, @stu_duguid, @uninterrupted, and @makespringhill. Can’t wait to share our stories ??”
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According to the Hollywood Reporter, the company is named Hana Kuma – derived from the Japanese words meaning “flower bear.”
“[Hana Kuma] will produce stories that are culturally specific but universal to all audiences; playful and bold in its approach to tackle important issues of society.”
The new company will produce both written and non-fiction content and is set to begin with a New York Times documentary about Patsy Mink– a Hawaiian-born Japanese American who was the first woman of color elected to the U.S. Congress. During the Nixon administration, Mink authored and narrowly defended Title IX, a law prohibiting discrimination based on sex in educational institutions that accept federal funding – these are the types of stories that Osaka wants to focus on these stories.
A statement from the tennis ace read, “There has been an explosion of creators of color finally being equipped with resources and a huge platform. “In the streaming age, content has a more global perspective. You can see this in the popularity of television in Asia, Europe and Latin America that the unique can also be universal.”
“My story is a testament to that as well. I’m so excited for what we are building at Hana Kuma. We will bring stories to life with this goal in mind: to make unique perspectives feel universal and inspire people along the way.”
Hana Kuma will be spearheaded by Osaka and her vision, along with her agent Stuart Duguid. LeBron and The SpringHill Company is set to support production, development, and more strategic resources.
