Meet Basma Hamde – an Assistant Director who’s been on a fast track through some of the biggest blockbusters in the business. She got her start in the COVID department before jumping into the deep end as a base PA on massive Marvel sets. Today, she’s opening up about what it’s really like to find your voice on set and navigate the industry as a person of color
Let’s start from the beginning – how did you get your first big break in the industry?
It all started when I saw a post from UKMF on Instagram back in 2022. I was already working on Loki season 2 at the time, but in the covid department, and I really wanted to move into the AD department. It’s super tough to make that switch, but I had a feeling the post was linked to a role with Marvel, so I went for it. The interview was smooth, and once I got in, it honestly changed everything for me. That one job led to three more. The Marvel crew tends to stick together, so once you’re in, you start to get more and more opportunities.
You mentioned working on Marvel’s Loki. What was that experience like, and how did it shape your next steps?
It was my entry point into the AD world. Even though I didn’t know the team that well at first, it was a massive learning curve. I was anxious at the start, but being on a big production helped me get out of my shell. The team was lovely, and I learned so much. That job really built my foundation and opened the door to the rest of my career.
What has been your most memorable project so far and why?
Definitely Deadpool & Wolverine. It was most of the team from Loki, so I felt comfortable straight away. The job was challenging – especially with the industry strike that paused work for four months – but I met people on that job who I genuinely love. It was emotional and exciting to be part of something so big. I was a base PA, so I got to greet actors and relay important info daily – it was hectic but amazing.
“I had to constantly remind myself that the doubts in my head weren’t facts.”
You spoke about building confidence. How did you go from feeling shy to leading on set?
It was all internal work. I had to constantly remind myself that the doubts in my head weren’t facts. I wanted to be there, so I pushed myself to speak more, be present, and focus on what was in front of me rather than overthinking. The more I did it, the easier it got.
Do you feel there are still enough opportunities for newcomers in the industry today? How has that changed since you started?
I’ve noticed it’s gotten harder post-strike. When I started, every department seemed to have a trainee. Now, I don’t see that as much. And with so many people looking for work, everyone’s willing to take lower roles just to stay in. It’s very much more about who you know, and I’ve seen that firsthand. I got my sister a job recently simply because I knew the right people.
Has your background or identity ever made you feel like an outsider on set? How have you navigated that?
Absolutely. I’ve often been the only person of colour in AD teams, which is wild. Sometimes you wonder, “Am I just the diversity hire?” That mindset can spiral. But then I’ve had moments like working on Bridgerton where there were so many people of colour on set. It reminded me we are talented, we belong, and it’s not about ability – it’s about access.
“I’d never seen so many Black and brown crew members in one place. It was powerful.”
You mentioned Bridgerton as a turning point. What made that experience stand out for you?
I only worked a couple of crowd days on it, but the diversity on that set blew me away. I’d never seen so many Black and brown crew members in one place. It was powerful. It made me fall in love with the industry again and reminded me why I’m doing this.
You’ve worked on some huge productions. How do you deal with imposter syndrome, especially in such high-pressure environments?
It’s real. Even recently, I was a cast assistant for two lead actors and I kept thinking, “Did I trick someone into hiring me?” But I try to reframe those thoughts. I wouldn’t have been chosen if I wasn’t meant to be there. I remind myself that being hired again and again means something.
What support structures (formal or informal) have helped you stay grounded in the industry?
There’s a group chat set up by Isra and Yusra Gillani for Muslim and BAME ADs. It’s been so motivating to know other people like me are out there hustling, even if we’re not on the same job. We meet up and stay connected. It keeps me going.
Looking ahead – where do you see yourself in the industry in five years? Are you still leaning toward producing?
I used to think producing was the dream, but I recently had a bit of a crisis on that front. After seeing how some producers treated crew members I got put off. That said, I still want to be on set, and producing might still be the path. I’m exploring right now. But I feel positive. I know I want to make a difference, and I believe I will.
“Keep showing up – because one day, someone else will look at you and believe they can do it too.”
Finally, what advice would you give to someone like you who’s just starting out and might be feeling unsure if they belong?
You do belong. It might not feel like it at first, especially if you’re the only one who looks like you, but don’t let that stop you. Find your people. Join the WhatsApp groups. Go to meetups. Remind yourself daily that your voice and presence matter. And keep showing up – because one day, someone else will look at you and believe they can do it too.
