BITE Voices | Black History Month 2023: Saluting our sisters

Indeed, stats from MEFA show that Black women in the media industry are least likely to feel that they are treated fairly and have access to career training and development and that Black people are increasingly likely to leave the industry as a result. Clearly, the industry needs to do more to get those ‘elbows out’ and take action.

When I moved brand-side, I did have a seat at the table. I was in the room where decisions were being made. I was often the voice of the brand. Working mainly in the charity sector, I championed creative ideas, pushed for meaningful representation beyond tokenism in casting, spoke up for colleagues and challenged agencies and internal leadership teams. But that seat came at a cost. I was often the lone voice and the only person that looked like me. 

Also, whilst I had a seat at the table when it came to decision-making, it was another story when it was time for recognition. I found that I was invisible – at awards, in the trade press – and this was before the optics of diversity was even a thing so my employers saw no benefit in promoting or championing me externally, even superficially. 

Starting my business back in 2016 changed everything. I could build my own table. For the first time, I had full agency over my career. I was able to select clients based on values and purpose. I won my first award in 2018 and have won at least one award every year since as I continue to combine my love of brands and fire for justice, working for clients such as Wellcome Trust, Amnesty International and Santander.

Of course, entrepreneurship is not for everyone. And it’s not ok that this is often the only path to visibility, resources and recognition for many minority people. 

Yet, as a business owner, I know just how many opportunities we, as leaders, have to get our elbows out. To use our resources to create and support platforms, create opportunities and uplift others. The larger the company or organisation, the more opportunities we have. 

I believe in the power of collective action. I’m a proud member of WACL, and love that we’re calling for change and working with allies to drive action so that we hit our 50% female CEO target, help close the gender pay gap; end sexual harassment and much more.

And now,  I am one of eight brilliant Black women, fuelled by a conversation in Cannes about the lack of Black British women represented on stages and panels, who have launched ‘Join Our Table’, an initiative to celebrate and shine a spotlight on Black women in the communications industries. 

We’re inviting all to join us. It’s time for our industry to get its elbows out, create space for, and celebrate Black women. Not just now, during Black History Month, but in a consistent, sustainable and meaningful way.