The TV Collective has launched TVC: Flowers, a new recognition series celebrating influential Global Majority figures working behind the scenes across British film and television.

The inaugural event honoured Tamara Howe, Managing Director of 22 Summers — the production company founded by Idris Elba — recognising her four-decade contribution to the UK screen industries.

The launch comes at a moment of renewed conversation across the screen industries about representation, equity and the experiences of Global Majority professionals working behind the scenes. Recent debates within the sector have underscored the importance of recognising and valuing the contributions of those shaping the industry today. Through TVC: Flowers, The TV Collective aims to create space to celebrate those achievements while their work and influence continue to be felt across the industry.

Held in London during International Women’s Day week, the evening brought together creatives, executives and collaborators from across the industry.

With more than 40 years of experience across the UK screen industries, Howe has held senior roles at organisations including the BBC, Vice Media and Naked Television, a Fremantle label. She is currently Managing Director of 22 Summers and is a founding member of the Cultural Diversity Network.

Tributes from across the industry were shared, including a personal video message from Idris Elba, alongside reflections from friends, family and collaborators who have worked with Howe throughout her career. Industry figures sharing reflections included:

Jim Allen (former London Weekend Television Controller of Programmes); Darcus Beese OBE (former President & CEO of Island Records); Cicelia Deane (former BET UK Editorial and Commissioning Executive); Joe Goodwin (former BBC Children’s Director); Sir Trevor Phillips OBE (broadcaster and former politician); Vic Roye (talent executive); Fatima Slaria (former md of naked); Pat Younge (Former BBC Chief Creative Officer) and others from across the television and creative industries.

Jim Allen said: “If you go back 40 years, it was very rare to see a Black woman in television, let alone one in a senior leadership position. Tamara carried a pressure many of us didn’t have to face, and she handled it brilliantly. She was — and remains — an inspirational figure.”

Cicelia Deane added: “Seeing a woman of colour rise through the ranks and hold real influence in this industry was incredibly inspiring. Tamara’s career has opened doors and created opportunities for many of us coming through.”

Simone Pennant, Founder of The TV Collective, said: “For years through our Friday Flowers posts we’ve celebrated people in our community whose work and contributions deserve recognition. With TVC: Flowers we wanted to take that idea a step further — creating a moment to celebrate those whose impact on our industry is profound but often unseen. Too often we wait until people have stepped away before recognising their influence. This initiative is about celebrating people while their work is still shaping the industry today.”

Tamara Howe said: “The love and appreciation in the room, and in the video messages, was beyond anything I imagined. I never expected it. It’s not easy making your way in this industry — and if you’re a Black woman, often the only one in the room, the road to success can be steeper. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has been part of the journey over the 40 years I’ve spent in this industry — people who have taught me, supported me and inspired me along the way.”