• Joy Gharoro-Akpojotor, Founder and Producer

    Joy Gharoro-Akpojotor founded Joi Productions in 2016.

    In 2019, she produced the breakout hit BLUE STORY, which became the highest-grossing film of its genre. That same year, she was recognised as a Screen International Star of Tomorrow and a BAFTA Breakthrough. In 2021, she produced Aml Ameen’s rom-com debut BOXING DAY, the UK’s first all-Black Christmas film.

    In 2022 Joy produced CHAMPION for BBC and Netflix. In 2024, she made her debut as a writer-director with DREAMERS, backed by BBC Film. The film premiered at the 75th Berlinale Film Festival in 2025, earning a Teddy Award nomination for Best Feature Film. Additionally, she produced FLORID and ANIMOL, further cementing Joy's reputation for producing groundbreaking storytelling.

  • Tom Hawkins, Producer

    Tom Hawkins is a seasoned producer who joined Joi Productions in 2022, bringing over 15 years of industry experience to the company.

    In 2025 Tom produced ANIMOL, Ashley Walters directorial debut, financed by Film4, BFI, and Sky. The first time Sky has worked with either Film 4, or the BFI.

    Prior to joining Joi Productions, Tom served as Head of Development at Wildgaze Films, working alongside Oscar-nominated producers Finola Dwyer and Amanda Posey (BROOKLYN & AN EDUCATION). He also held the position of Associate Producer at Daybreak Pictures, contributing to Justin Kurzel's TRUE HISTORY OF THE KELLY GANG, Roger Michell's HYDE PARK ON HUDSON, and Paula Milne's THE POLITICIAN'S HUSBAND.

  • Tony Badu, Development Producer

    Tony Badu is a writer, director and producer with a rich portfolio of scripted and unscripted TV & Film, including for BBC & BFI.

    Before Joi, he focused on arts, housing, and community organizing, directing films for renowned cultural institutions.

    At Joi, he's committed to storytelling that drives lasting equity in film. Tony speaks four languages and is passionate about stories from the Global South and adaptations (incl. literary, nonfiction, sci-fi/fantasy).

Joi Productions is supported with funds awarded by the UK Global Screen Fund – financed by the UK Government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport and administered by the BFI.