Have you ever wondered about the untold stories behind influential leaders? On this episode of Leadership in Colour, we sit down with Jacob Knox-Hooke, Operations Director and Co-Leader of DE&I at PHD Global, to uncover the rich tapestry of his life and career.

We trace the unique history of Jacob's name back to Sierra Leone, exploring how his heritage has shaped his professional journey. From his beginnings in digital planning and buying to spearheading diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, Jacob reveals the strategic importance of dedicated roles in fostering genuine change within organizations.

Our conversation evolves into a deeply personal exploration of our respective paths into the marketing and advertising industry, highlighting serendipitous moments and the powerful influence of family heritage. Jacob opens up about the challenges of growing up in an environment where academic achievement was paramount but emotional expression was limited. He shares his transformative journey from unhealthy coping mechanisms following significant personal losses to discovering the importance of emotional literacy and resilience.

The episode wraps up by focusing on the necessity of empowering teams through diversity and inclusion, and the integration of mental health first aid training into management practices. Jacob and I discuss practical strategies for supporting team members through emotional intelligence and coaching techniques. We reflect on the importance of honest introspection and openness in personal and professional growth, providing valuable insights for leaders aiming to inspire and nurture their teams.

Join us for an episode filled with heartfelt stories and actionable advice that will resonate with leaders at all levels.

Support the Show.

Your feedback is always welcome, as we strive to enhance the content's value for you. Enjoy Leadership in Colour - Voices you may not have heard from before.

Discover the secrets to success by embracing your unique journey in this thought-provoking podcast episode featuring Davina Barker, Sales Director for Digital Cinema Media. Davina shares her extraordinary life story, from her adoption and the meaningful tale behind her name to her recent accolade, the MEFA Hammer Award. Gain intimate insights into how personal experiences drive professional excellence and learn from her invaluable advice on balancing ambition with mental health, celebrating achievements, and maintaining well-being.

Curious about how career paths can take unexpected yet rewarding turns? Davina reflects on her early aspirations in medicine and the surprising journey that led her to the advertising industry. Hear her thoughts on the resilience and adaptability that minority groups bring to the workplace, viewing their experiences as true superpowers. This episode is packed with advice on mentorship, early career bravery, and evolving confidence, making it a must-listen for anyone at the beginning of their professional journey.

We also explore the dynamic media landscape and the critical importance of networking in a constantly changing industry. Davina discusses the enduring relevance of television despite predictions of its decline and the slow rise of mobile media. Additionally, we delve into the crucial role of diverse perspectives and the increasing representation of South Asian films in cinema. Tune in for a compelling mix of professional wisdom, personal stories, and industry insights.

https://www.dcm.co.uk/
https://www.mefadiversityandinclusionawards.com/awards
https://www.linkedin.com/in/davina-barker-177b656/
https://linktr.ee/sheziqbal

Support the Show.

Your feedback is always welcome, as we strive to enhance the content's value for you. Enjoy Leadership in Colour - Voices you may not have heard from before.

Ever wondered about the vibrant role of diversity in leadership and why it’s crucial in the corporate world? Join me, Shez Iqbal, for an insightful and dynamic conversation with Ally Owen, the energetic founder of Brixton Finishing School, who’s revolutionizing diversity in the advertising industry.

In this episode, named (by Ally) Dumpster Fire to Phoenix; we explore Ally's inspiring journey—from her beginnings as a determined innovator to becoming a leading advocate for inclusivity. We discuss the vital importance of authentic representation and the power of mentorship in uplifting diverse voices within the corporate world.

Get ready for an engaging discussion on how opportunity and diversity can transform lives and careers. Discover how a training program, born from the vision and determination of a single mother, has become a beacon of hope, breaking down barriers for individuals from all backgrounds. This initiative is more than just a curriculum; it's a thriving community where support is constant, and cultural nuances are embraced as core values.

As our conversation winds down, we tackle the delicate balance between individuality and corporate expectations. We delve into the challenges of code-switching and the dynamics of authenticity in the workplace, questioning how much of oneself should be compromised for professional acceptance. With a rallying cry for inclusive leadership, we invite you to join the mission for equitable representation and success for all.

Tune in for a raw and fun conversation filled with insights on diversity, leadership, mentorship, and authentic representation. Get inspired and be part of the movement for a more diverse and inclusive future. Support the show!

YouTube - @LeadershipInColour
Socials and podcasts - https://linktr.ee/sheziqbal

YouTube - @brixtonfinishingschoolteam263
BFS - https://brixtonfinishingschool.org/

Support the Show.

Your feedback is always welcome, as we strive to enhance the content's value for you. Enjoy Leadership in Colour - Voices you may not have heard from before.

Join us for an engaging and light-hearted sneak peek into our upcoming interview with Gary Rayneau and Elaine Dela Cruz, the dynamic duo behind Project23 and Coaches of Colour. In this delightful behind-the-scenes outtake, we not only touch on the profound impact of their DEI work but also share laughs over fashion and sneakers, showcasing the infectious energy and camaraderie between us.

Dive into our nostalgic journey through sneaker culture, where we reminisce about our first pairs of trainers, debate the merits of Air Force Ones, and uncover the charm of outlet bargains. Elaine, a self-confessed sneakerhead, and Gary, with his sentimental shoe stories, reveal how our footwear choices mirror our life paths and personal values. We even discuss the lifecycle of our beloved kicks, from the excitement of unboxing to their eventual role as trusty garden shoes.

This conversation sets the stage for the full interview, where we delve deeper into the inspiring journey and initiatives of Project23. Get ready to be moved by the warmth, wit, and wisdom of these remarkable individuals, and don’t miss the chance to be part of the pre-interview fun!

Subscribe to our channel for more leadership insights, behind-the-scenes specials, and in-depth interviews with industry leaders. Be sure to comment with your thoughts and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest releases!

Support the Show.

Your feedback is always welcome, as we strive to enhance the content's value for you. Enjoy Leadership in Colour - Voices you may not have heard from before.

In this special coaching edition of Leadership in Colour, we delve into an insightful and engaging conversation with Gary Rayneau and Elaine Dela Cruz, the innovative minds behind Project23, Coaches of Colour, and the Equitable Coaching Foundation. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the passionate and dynamic world these two leaders navigate, emphasizing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the corporate realm.

Gary and Elaine share their journey from the advertising world to creating impactful DEI initiatives, revealing the motivations and challenges that shaped their path. We explore the power of names and the stories they hold, shedding light on how our identities intertwine with our professional experiences. The dialogue naturally transitions into the essence of Coaches of Colour, highlighting how it addresses the need for representation and understanding in the coaching industry, and the transformative power of coaching for people of colour.

Through laughter and candid discussions, we tackle the nuances of competitive spirit, the concept of 'alpha' in leadership, and the profound impact of speaking one's truth, especially for women and people of colour. The conversation is not just about the work they do but also about how they navigate their own identities and relationships within the broader context of societal change and personal growth.

Prepare to be inspired by the stories of resilience, change, and the relentless pursuit of creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace. This episode is a testament to the power of partnership, the importance of authenticity, and the need for systemic change in our professional environments.

Support the Show.

Your feedback is always welcome, as we strive to enhance the content's value for you. Enjoy Leadership in Colour - Voices you may not have heard from before.

Embark with us on a captivating exploration of the mind and soul of Anant Joshi, the media maven and Plant CEO pioneer. His journey from investment management to becoming a trailblazer in the ad tech landscape during the digital age's zenith reveals not just the growth of an industry but the evolution of a leader. Anant's tales of innovation and digital marketing acumen provide a backdrop for the profound personal shift that led him to advocate for ethical eating and environmental responsibility.

The heart of our dialogue beats to the rhythm of sustainability, as we unravel the connections between our food choices and the planet's health. Anant's transformation from vegetarianism to veganism opened his eyes to the hidden truths of animal agriculture, sparking a mission to amplify voices of change within the vegan movement. We celebrate the entrepreneurs and experts who are crafting a new narrative for ethical consumption, and discuss the significance of platforms like Beyond Animal that are reshaping how plant-based businesses thrive.

Concluding our journey, we examine the tangible health benefits of a plant-based diet through illuminating research and personal stories of transformation—like that of New York's Mayor Eric Adams. As we look towards a future where plant-based living is integral for longevity and disease prevention, we also challenge misconceptions about strength and diet, aiming to empower the next generation to make conscious, sustainable choices. Join us as we share these stories, recommendations, and the potential for a greener, kinder world.

Recommended content:

Plant CEO - https://www.youtube.com/@PLANTCEO/videos
Dairy is Scary - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcN7SGGoCNI
Earthlings Documentary - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gqwpfEcBjI
What the Health - https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/80174177
Cowspiracy - https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/80033772
Dominion - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQRAfJyEsko

Referenced products/brands:
Beyond Animal - https://beyondanimal.com
Veggie Victory - https://veggievictory.com
Just Egg - https://www.ju.st
GOOD Meat - https://www.goodmeat.co

Support the Show.

Your feedback is always welcome, as we strive to enhance the content's value for you. Enjoy Leadership in Colour - Voices you may not have heard from before.

This episode of Leadership in Colour presents an unparalleled Black History Month dialogue. Clinging to the edges, we navigate a series of unexpected revelations and insightful detours, led by our distinguished guests on a captivating journey of discovery.

In this special edition, we re-welcome the perceptive Aaron Adams from Criteo and introduce the extraordinary Prena Khan from BidSwitch. Be prepared to be moved as we delve into themes of personal development, the influential sway of mentors, and the nuanced meanings behind names. We honour Black History Month, shedding light on its profound effects on both individuals and communities, debating the significance of an all-encompassing historical curriculum, and analysing the financial consequences of restricting cultural appreciation to just one month. Additionally, we celebrate the deep-seated relationship between cuisine and identity, inviting you to share in this rich and thought-provoking expedition.

This instalment also features compelling narratives of determination and triumph. Listen as we recount how the guidance of a dedicated high school teacher and a challenging friendship motivated an individual towards a remarkable career in advertising, overcoming initial obstacles and familial indifference. We further explore the life-changing impact of role models and the delights of lifelong learning. As we pay tribute to Black History Month, we delve deeper into the critical need for a diverse educational narrative and consider the long-term effects of brief marketing approaches versus the necessity for ongoing endeavours in corporate inclusivity. Prepare for a session brimming with introspection, growth, and festivity.

Fulfil your intellectual appetite as we link cuisine with culture in this enlightening segment of Leadership in Colour. Join us as Aaron Adams and Prena Khan guide us through a gastronomic voyage, revealing how food profoundly influences our identity and well-being. We investigate the intricate connections between traditional dishes and personal heritage, and how these culinary experiences offer comfort and foster a sense of community. Engage with us in this savoury discourse on the pivotal role food plays in our lives, offering more than sustenance but a pathway to heart and heritage. Anticipate a conversation that’s not only flavourful but deeply satisfying, stirring a hunger for understanding and unity.

This conversation is in collaboration with Criteos BIPOC Community.

Support the Show.

Your feedback is always welcome, as we strive to enhance the content's value for you. Enjoy Leadership in Colour - Voices you may not have heard from before.

Have you ever paused to marvel at the power of your heritage and how it shapes your identity? Serhat Ekinci, a charismatic figure from UNITE of OMG, joins me in this conversation which unpacks the vibrant hues that paint his leadership style and cultural savvy. His story is a kaleidoscope of experiences, from a childhood spent hustling in the markets of his native land to the boardrooms of the UK, where he now forges connections between brands and diverse communities. Serhat's narrative is a bold reminder of the threads of identity, mentorship, and heritage that weave through the fabric of effective leadership.

Serhat's tales of his early work life are nothing short of a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Starting at just nine years old, his roles ranged from a mechanic shop assistant to a door-to-door surveyor, each job imbued with lessons on negotiation, confidence, and the sheer tenacity to succeed against the odds. These anecdotes are more than stories—they are the building blocks of a character that stands unshaken amidst the trials of work and life. Serhat's journey mirrors that of many immigrants, balancing education, work, and personal life, all while navigating the complexities of cultural identity and empowerment.

Join me, as we navigate the often-underrated terrains of networking and the intuition that guides business decisions. Serhat doesn't just walk us through the strategies of setting targets and profit planning; he shines a light on the value of gut instincts, honed by experience, in charting a course through the unpredictable world of business. His candid reflections are a masterclass in authenticity, offering hard-earned wisdom for those grappling with their own professional landscapes. So, let's immerse ourselves in the colours and contours of Serhat Ekinci's inspiring odyssey.

Support the Show.

Your feedback is always welcome, as we strive to enhance the content's value for you. Enjoy Leadership in Colour - Voices you may not have heard from before.