The founder and director of The TV Collective on her famous neighbour, magic mum and Idris Elba
Last time I cried
In 2018 I lost my dad, had treatment for a life-threatening condition and split with my long-term partner. I cried most of the year and the stress broke my relationship and nearly broke me. Once you hit rock bottom, the only way to go is up.
Growing up I…
Lived on the same council estate as Raheem Sterling with my sister and mum. While most parents opted to work at the local factory, my mum choose to become a clown – yes, a children’s entertainer. She was the first black woman to be welcomed into the magic circle. That taught me the importance of doing what you love.
I shout at the telly…
At lazy, inauthentic, one-dimensional, clichéd and stereotypical portrayals. I don’t usually even shout, I just turn over.
Big break
Many moons ago I produced and presented a music magazine show with news and topical debate targeted at the black community for BET UK. Some time later, I applied for a job at Channel 4, and the interviewer recognised me and gave me my first job in TV.
Moment of clarity
Apart from the loss of my son in 2008, which gave birth to The TV Collective, 2018 focused my attention – facing death and loss has a way of doing that. It helped me to get laser focused and concentrate on the areas I felt were most important.
Bucket list item
More a last promise to my father: write a book.
Best advice
I remember asking my dad when I was little the purpose of life and he simply responded by saying: “Make sure everything you do is purposeful.” It’s a mantra I still live by today.
Celebrity crush
Idris Elba – no contest. He’s swagalicious. As part of a programme we run, leaders get to choose their own mentors. One asked for Idris – I promptly replied: “Hell no! Not if I get him first!”
My mentor
Industry coach and business titan Remy Blumenfeld has been influential. I met him at the end of 2018 when I was on my knees. He opened my eyes to the endless possibilities. I was so inspired, I asked him to join me in my quest to diversify senior management. This resulted in Breakthrough Leaders – helping 51 senior leaders of colour escape the frozen middle ground and take their next big career step.
Career ambition
Inspired by the success of our Channel 5 diversity commissioning drive and our Channel 4 Accelerator Scheme, I want to continue to support and profile companies and creatives of colour. The time is long overdue for a super-indie to be run by people of colour.
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