Sum up our industry in 3 words…

Shaping lived realities.

You’re Head of Diversity & Belonging at Hearst UK – what does that entail, and why is it so important?

My job sits in and across all areas of the business. I do everything from creating our five-year D&B strategy and supporting our Senior Leaders to advising on our content and consulting on our campaigns. No one day is the same. It is important because the media industry historically has not always adequately represented marginalised and racialised communities, both in content and behind the scenes. Diversity and Belonging shifts that; it pushes for diversity with consideration and an environment where everyone has a voice that belongs.

What attracted you to joining our industry, and more specifically this role?

Our content isn’t just entertainment, it has a direct impact on the way we see ourselves and other people. I worked in the rehabilitative function of the criminal justice system for well over a decade. Whenever I asked someone in the system what shaped their view of themselves or others, media was always in the top three. I had a direct insight into how media impacts our daily lives for the good and the bad, and wanted to be part of influencing that.

What’s currently inspiring you at work?

The passion of others here at Hearst UK. Diversity is a collective journey, and I am constantly inspired by my colleagues who never stop pushing for more. We have a highly engaged Diversity & Belonging team, a Diversity & Belonging Steering Committee, and an array of Employee Resource Groups who engage with others in the business and help to drive change. As applies to the whole industry, we are still on a journey, but my colleagues throughout the organisation don’t see obstacles – they see opportunities, and nothing could inspire me more. Since I joined Hearst UK last year, I’ve helped colleagues open up the conversation around D&B much more, and it’s very much part of the rhythm of our business conversation. That’s inspiring for me, and I hope for everyone else.

What’s having the biggest impact right now in improving diversity in the industry and what more does the industry need to do?

Outreach, outreach, outreach. It is important that people not already working in media/publishing see that this industry is for them too, and understand the possibilities of a career in magazine media. I didn’t even know my job was possible before I stepped into it. I should add that outreach doesn’t begin and end with young people, it is important that we are engaging people of all ages, including those on second and third careers.

*How can organisations such as the PPA help with the work you do? *

The PPA already helps in connecting the dots with their pan-industry Diversity and Inclusion Board. We simply cannot address industry-wide issues relating to diversity and belonging in silos. It takes community and collective movement, which can only be done by organisations coming together.

What magazines did you read when you were younger and what did you enjoy about them? And what’s your go to read now?

My magazines of choice when I was young were Word Up, Right On, and The Source. They were Black-focused magazines popular in the 1990s that fully represented me as a Black man, and you used to get news and posters from all your favourite R&B and Hip Hop acts.

It’s difficult to answer now as part of my job is to read our magazines. I have read a lot of ELLE Decoration for home ideas, and I read a lot of Digital Spy to keep up with news from TV and Film (which is online only).

What do you hope to be doing in 10 years’ time – personally and professionally?

In an ideal world, I and other Diversity focused professionals wouldn’t be needed in ten years and people will be empowered to the point of autonomy, however I think our collective industry’s journey will take a little longer than that. Professionally for me, I hope to be influencing and conducting more conversations both in front of and behind the camera.