What do you enjoy about your job?
I feel privileged to have a career where I get to make real change happen with very human outcomes. Growing up I did sometimes doubt my dreams, because I never saw anyone that looked like me doing the work I was interested in. There’s a saying: ‘You can’t be, what you can’t see.’ Don’t underestimate the power of representation and how it can inform your world view.
It is difficult to have the confidence to pursue professional goals, and to even have an idea of what goals are available to pursue, when you don’t see people that share your same identities or experience in those positions. Representation shapes perception and is a powerful tool. I’ve witnessed first hand the problems that the media and creative industries have had retaining and progressing Black talent and other underrepresented groups. Despite any hurdles I have faced I am proud of my journey and to be working at All3Media.
What are your top tips for Black talent in TV to get ahead in the industry?
Your voice matters, share your ideas and accelerate your growth.
Be curious and tenacious and observe and listen.
Be your own cheerleader and shout about your achievements. Also being visible on platforms like LinkedIn as this can increase your income, impact and/or influence.
Reframe failure, it doesn’t exist. Look at it simply as a lesson to learn from your mistakes.
Network, network, network. Your network is your net-worth.