Aspire, a group set up to represent the views of ethnic minority journalists, is marking its first anniversary by holding a debate entitled: “What is the future of black media professionals – do we stay in the mainstream or go independent?” The event, which is also being called the group’s formal launch, will be held at the Pearson building on the Strand on 31 July from 1pm-5.30pm. Guest speakers include Vic Motune, deputy editor of The Voice; Lisa Urquhart, the Financial Times’s UK companies reporter; and Kaye Adeniran-Olule, editor of website Black Britain.
Aspire board member Uchenna Izundu said: “This event will look at what we can learn from our experiences to date and how to use these in developing a strategy for the future.
“A career in the media is all about taking control. We cannot rely on other people to give us answers or look to official reports to tell us what we already know – there is poor representation and participation in the media from those of an ethnic minority background.”
Raphael Mokades, diversity manager at Pearson, said: “Pearson and the FT are delighted to sponsor Aspire. We endeavour to have a workforce where the most talented people can shine regardless of their background and we’re very proud to be associated with Aspire’s formal launch.”
To register a place at the event, e-mail aspireuk@hotmail.com.
There is an entrance fee of £3 and the address is: Pearson, 80 The Strand, London WC2R 0RL.
By Dominic Ponsford
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