'We want to find new voices' - Naomi Scott

Naomi Scott, an actress from East London, is well-known for her role as Princess Jasmine in the live-action Disney film Aladdin, which was released in 2019. She has a unique story because she did not attend drama school, as she did not have the opportunity to do so. Naomi expresses her thoughts on the barriers that many aspiring actors face when trying to enter the industry. Four years ago, she co-founded a production company called New Name Entertainment with her husband, Jordan Spencer. This company has created a special fund aimed at helping students from working-class backgrounds gain access to prestigious drama and film schools. Naomi emphasizes that 'it's not just about learning the craft; it's also about navigating the industry,' which she believes is crucial for success. The New Name fund is designed to support students by providing financial assistance for drama school or courses at the National Film and Television School (NFTS). Naomi believes that it is essential to help those who come from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, as they often do not have the same opportunities as others. She states, 'If you come from a background that is not supportive of pursuing a career in acting, it can be incredibly challenging to succeed. ' In addition to financial support, the fund also offers mentoring and career development programs for working-class students. Naomi feels fortunate to be able to create projects driven by curiosity and wants to encourage others to do the same. She explains, 'The idea behind New Name is to always be learning and to discover new voices, new writers, filmmakers, and stories. ' Although she acknowledges that they cannot do everything, she believes that they can make a difference by helping some individuals find a clearer path to their aspirations. Recently, Naomi returned to the big screen in the horror film sequel Smile 2, which premiered on Thursday. She attended the film's premiere in Los Angeles, marking her return to a significant role after her performance in Aladdin. When she is not working on films, Naomi enjoys exploring London. She shares, 'I love being in London; it is the best city in the world. ' Riding the Tube is one of her favorite activities, as it reminds her of her teenage years and the feeling of independence. Naomi recalls how she used to travel to London for auditions, which adds a sense of nostalgia to her experiences. She also appreciates the public transport system in London, particularly the Elizabeth line, which she finds to have excellent air conditioning.