It’s also World Mental Health Day in October. What does “Black Health and Wellness,” mean when considering mental health?
I think it’s vital to look after our mental and physical wellbeing. It’s easy to say ‘just get on with things’ as we have learned to do but the pressures are real and can be debilitating. There are so many factors that can affect Black mental health including covert and overt racism. In addition to this are the inequalities in the treatment of Black mental health within the system. That’s why campaigns that raise awareness, understanding and support are so important, as well as knowing you are not alone.
In the context of TV representation, the full spectrum of our experiences, despite the pain. Love, romance, humour, community, connection, warmth, hope… I could go on!
What Black creators, organisations, or movements inspire/empower you?
So many. Toni Morrison, David Olusoga, Margaret Busby, The TriForce Creative Network, to name a few…
Barriers due to race can sometimes be covert so you don’t always know you’re experiencing them – reflection tells me yes but at the time I often questioned myself instead of the system. External perceptions of your abilities can sometimes cloud your own.
Difficult to pinpoint a favourite as there are a number: Judi Love for her jokes and authenticity, The Big Breakfast for its energy and fun and range of guests, and the same for The Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan, and the wit and writing in I May Destroy You, 3 Non-Blondes, Insecure and Atlanta…
What do you enjoy about your job?
Having the opportunity to work on a wide and diverse range of stories.
There may be roles out there that you don’t know exist, so keep looking for what might be right for you. The cliché of having to work harder is true but believe in yourself, find supportive people, be resilient and keep going.