Nicole Avant, producer, author, and former U.S. ambassador to the Bahamas, recently returned to Martha’s Vineyard to participate in the third annual Martha’s Vineyard Community Purpose event.
Avant, who spent her childhood summers in historically Black enclaves like Oak Bluffs and Sag Harbor, spoke about the profound impact these communities had on her upbringing and how they shaped her understanding of Black excellence and resilience.
The event, hosted by Spike Lee and Tonya Lewis Lee, brought together a notable gathering of Black professionals, intellectuals, and politicians, including former First Lady Michelle Obama and filmmaker Will Packer.
Avant joined her close friends and fellow authors, Michelle Norris and Sharon Malone, to discuss her new book, Think You’ll Be Happy, which delves into themes of hope, resilience, and moving forward after tragedy.
Avant emphasized the importance of community, a value deeply ingrained in her by her parents, the late legendary music executive Clarence Avant, known as “The Black Godfather,” and her mother, philanthropist Jacqueline Avant.
“My parents took me to these places, and it was great for me growing up to see Black doctors, Black lawyers, Black professionals, Black people who own their businesses,” Avant reflected. “It made a huge difference in my life.”
The event also featured heartfelt introductions from the authors’ husbands, including Avant’s husband, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, who humorously recounted their first meeting at a Barack Obama fundraiser.
Sarandos also touched on the tragic loss of Jacqueline Avant, who was killed during a home invasion in 2021, and the impact it had on their family.
During the discussion, Avant spoke candidly about her journey of healing and the importance of honoring her parents’ legacy.
“My book is not just about Black excellence,” she explained. “It’s also about moving forward, getting to the other side of how I did it, sharing advice, and sharing life lessons.”
Looking ahead, Avant is set to produce Tyler Perry’s upcoming Netflix film The Six Triple Eight, which tells the story of the only U.S. Army unit composed of women of color during World War II. The film, starring Kerry Washington, received an enthusiastic response at the recent Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival.
Avant’s participation in the event, alongside her ongoing work in film and literature, underscores her commitment to celebrating Black excellence, resilience, and the power of community.
