For years I’ve been going to events that focused on “black” professionals in the music or media industries… I’d attend with enthusiasm to ask questions, network and most importantly – to feel inspired – a sense of hope that I could fit into these industries.And for years, I’ve left such events almost always feeling frustrated. Every panelist was “professional” at giving the talk, but what about the action? There I was a young 19 yr old, motivated and seeking a step through the media door – and no one could give me a straight answer on how I could get through. And that was where my “us” (younger generation) against “them” (older generation – more specifically my dad, a music journalist) complex began; “they don’t want us to get their jobs” or “they want us to struggle the way they did (I’m pretty sure that’s still applicable to my dad)”!
Tonight, however, was a bit different and much of it is to do with a change in my mentally especially since becoming UAL ACS president. I’ve been guilty of the “black saviour” syndrome. It comes in many forms of expectations; the token black actor, token black film that hits the cinemas, and at times – the token black event, we expect to “save us” by answering all our questions and concerns. These events aren’t the answer to all our questions or actions for that matter. They’re merely to get the dialogue rolling, opportunity to seek advice on a niche and network. As many of the panelist stressed, there’s no easy path to success – you have to put in the graft!
Kai, UAL ACS President with Richard Blackwood
The panel we indeed distinguished, many of whom I’d heard of before – more opportunity to get to know. Dontun Adebayo MBE chaired the discussion. I met him at a Shine Media event in October hosted by Joanna Abeyie – founder of Shine Media and also a panelist on the night. Richard Blackwood didn’t need much of an introduction and that’s perhaps why I was surprised that there were some empty seats! A stand-up comic, broadcaster and musician, I grew up watching Richard on TV so I had my little “starstruck” moment. Ruby Mulraine proved to be very popular as there was a queue to see her during the networking session. However with a bit of patience I got my 5 minutes of dialogue with her and the advice given was worth the wait!
Other distinguished guests both on the panel and in the audience made the event very though-provoking. I’m looking forward to the next one in March… However I’m inspired to organise an ACS event on a similar subject as soon as next month so stay tuned!
We’re always looking to network and partner with media professionals or organisations. Please get in touch if you’d be interested in reaching out to students by giving an inspirational or motivational message… Lets continue the ball rolling!
Pictures taken by Kai Lutterodt
Kai and the ACS team x
Diversity Matters 