Danait Yallow, Mia Frank and Amelia Benjamin have created their own web series, Higher Learning, to address the lack of diverse representation in coming-of-age television shows. The series follows Zara, a character written by Danait, as she starts university outside London, navigating Fresher nerves and cultural expectations.
Why they created Higher Learning
Mia Frank explained: 'It always comes down to not feeling completely seen or represented. When you don’t have somebody who looks like you or who has gone through similar life experiences to you, it’s very difficult to invest time and energy into that show, or that film.' The trio decided to take matters into their own hands after struggling to get commissioned by traditional broadcasters. Danait Yallow said: 'We just got tired of asking for permission, asking and begging to be seen and heard.'
The story of Zara
Zara is from a sheltered home and is learning to find her feet at university. Danait described: 'She’s from a very sheltered home, so it’s about her coming to terms with her new environment, meeting new people and finding her feet in her first day.' The series aims to offer an alternative perspective to mainstream shows like Fresh Meat, My Mad Fat Diary and The Inbetweeners, which often lack diverse representation.
Platform and distribution
Without broadcaster backing, the creators are publishing Higher Learning on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok, tapping into the growing trend of microdramas. Danait noted: 'The process is completely out of touch for us. It’s out of reach.' The series launches on July 20 on TikTok (@_amelia_benjamin, @miamoviemaker), Instagram (@amd.house.creative) and YouTube (@AMDHousecreative).
Previous success and authenticity
The trio previously made the film When The Sun Goes Down, a South Asian romance selected for three film festivals in Canada and the UK. Danait emphasised the importance of authenticity: 'I think that there is a hesitancy amongst TV execs or commissioners that perhaps something is too niche... But I actually think the opposite is the case. The more authentic you are, the more you cater to your niche.' She added: 'Stop trying to be everything for everybody because it’s just going to feel empty.'
University experiences of people of colour
According to the Higher Education Statistics Agency, white students accounted for 68% of all students in higher education in 2024/25. Danait shared: 'From my perspective and a lot of people of colour’s perspective, when you go to university, you go with the expectations of your family and the understanding of the gravity of the opportunity you’ve been given.' She noted the pressure to meet family expectations while also living for oneself. Mia added: 'I have a very tight-knit community and am very close to my family, and my culture is very important to me. And when you go to university, and you’re around people who maybe don’t understand that or can’t relate to you, it can be difficult.'
Impact and availability
The creators hope Higher Learning will help audiences understand one another better. The series is available from July 20 on the mentioned platforms.
