The Creative Industry Has A Woman Problem

A crucial and often uncomfortable conversation resurfaced on Culture Daily last week, one that continues to shape the realities of many women navigating the creative industry. At the heart of the discussion was a troubling but persistent issue: the expectation for women to exchange personal or sexual favours in return for professional opportunities.

This conversation, sparked by artiste Feli Nuna, goes beyond isolated experiences. It reflects a systemic challenge embedded in parts of the entertainment and media ecosystem, where access, exposure and advancement are sometimes tied to inappropriate demands rather than merit.

Feli Nuna recounted experiences dating back to the early stages of her career, where individuals in positions of influence suggested that success required more than talent and hard work. The idea of needing a “godfather” in the industry, one who would demand intimacy as a prerequisite for support, highlights a deeply problematic culture.

Such encounters are not only exploitative but also psychologically damaging. For young, aspiring creatives, especially women these moments often come with confusion, shame and pressure. The line between mentorship and manipulation becomes blurred, leaving many to either resist and risk stagnation or comply and compromise their values.

Even more concerning is that these experiences do not necessarily diminish with success. As Feli Nuna shared, similar propositions and coercive behaviour can persist even after artistes establish themselves suggesting that the issue is not about vulnerability alone, but about power.

An interesting contrast emerged during the discussion: while traditional media spaces may still be controlled by gatekeepers who can abuse power, digital platforms have opened new doors.

On social media, many female creatives are thriving independently building audiences, monetising content and expressing themselves without needing approval from intermediaries. This shift has created a level of autonomy that challenges the traditional structures of the industry.

However, this freedom also introduces another layer to the conversation.

A counterpoint raised during the discussion questioned how women are represented in media and whether certain portrayals contribute to how they are perceived and treated.

Referencing global figures like Cardi B, the conversation explored how hyper-sexualised imagery in music and digital content influences audience expectations. With social media amplifying visual expression, many argue that the line between empowerment and objectification has become increasingly blurred.

Critics suggest that when sexuality becomes a dominant form of expression, it may unintentionally shape how some individuals engage with female creatives sometimes inappropriately. Others strongly oppose this view, emphasising that no form of expression justifies exploitation or harassment.

One of the clearest distinctions made during the conversation was this:

There is nothing inherently wrong with expressing personal interest. However, it becomes unacceptable when that interest is tied to professional advancement.

Holding opportunities hostage in exchange for intimacy is not only unethical, but it is an abuse of power.

The path forward requires balance between freedom of expression and accountability, between empowerment and protection.

For many women in the creative space, the goal remains simple: To be judged by their talent, respected for their work and given equal access without conditions.

As conversations like this continue, one thing becomes clear: Real change will only happen when silence is replaced with honesty and power is matched with responsibility.