Our Core Team
Passionate individuals make up our core team, all of them deeply immersed in diversity and equity.
They bring their knowledge, experience and insights to the table. We are pleased to spotlight our exceptional team members who make the magic happen.
Passionate individuals make up our core team, all of them deeply immersed in diversity and equity.
They bring their knowledge, experience and insights to the table. We are pleased to spotlight our exceptional team members who make the magic happen.
Senior Leadership
Dawn Whyte
Director of Business and Advancement Strategy
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve water, activities and restaurants.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be time travel.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be a dancer when I grew up.
When I read Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by lighting vanilla bean candles.
If I didn’t live in London, I’d live in Miami.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is my MacBook to watch Korean dramas.
The smartest career decision I have made so far is to volunteer for projects outside of my role.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is to know when an environment is no longer good for you.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to remember the little things about people whether it’s their hobbies, family, achievements. People appreciate when you remember them – it makes you stand out.
My favourite quote is “Luck is what happens when opportunity meets preparation” from Roman philosopher Seneca.
My mother is someone who has inspired me to be the person I am.
Fiona Shorey
Director of Events and Client Experience
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve good food, wine and a town of some kind.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be reading people’s minds.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be a sweetie shop owner when I grew up.
When I read High Performance: Lessons from the Best on Becoming your Best by Damian Hughes and Jake Humphrey, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by visiting the coffee shop.
If I didn’t live in London, I’d live in New York or Paris.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is designer sunglasses.
The smartest career decision I have made so far is working in diversity and inclusion where I can see the impact of the work I do.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is that not all skills are measurable, so you have to be intentional about showcasing your talent and contributions.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to do work you enjoy, and the rest will follow.
My favourite quote is “try and fail, but never fail to try”!
My father is someone who has inspired me to be the person I am.
Rose Qian
Head of Marketing Communications
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve kitten yoga.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be controlling time.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be a vet when I grew up.
When I read On Becoming a Person by Carl Rogers, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by reading a good newsletter.
If I didn’t live in London, I’d live in Paris.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is a poetry book.
The smartest career decision I have made so far is choosing a job that matches my passions and values.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is learning to ask for help.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to bring honesty and compassion to every interaction.
My favourite quote is: “When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid” – Audre Lorde.
My community of friends, colleagues and mentors has inspired me to be the person I am.
Core Team
Aditi Banerjee
Communications Intern
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve the ocean, adventure and great food.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be teleportation, to travel anywhere anytime.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be an architect when I grew up.
When I read If my Body could Speak by Blythe Baird, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by making a list.
If I didn’t live in London, I’d live in Rome.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is art supplies.
The smartest career decision I have made so far is being led by my passion to have an impact.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is that working towards progress takes time.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is “When you do what you love, that drive will motivate the best results”.
My favourite quote is “Follow your passion. It will lead you to your purpose” – Oprah Winfrey.
Afua Hirsch is someone who has inspired me to be the person I am.
Kieran Channing
Creative and Social Media Associate
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve a search for adventure – anything from hiking to deep diving.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be teleportation.
When I was 5, I was pretty sure I’d be a musician when I grew up.
When I read The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by hitting the gym.
If I didn’t live in London, I’d live in Bali.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is my dog.
The smartest career decision I have made so far is not to be a people pleaser.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is you’ll always make mistakes.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to be yourself.
My favourite quote is “It doesn’t matter where you live, as long as you live where you are”.
My wife is someone who has inspired me to be the person I am.
David Dellaire
Event Producer
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve sunshine, delicious food, music making, and down time.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be magically giving others confidence, or the ability to create chocolate from anything.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be an engineer when I grew up.
When I read The Good Ally by Nova Reid, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by brushing my cat Teddy.
If I didn’t live in London, I’d live in Paris.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is chocolate!
The smartest career decision I have made so far is accepting that my strengths lie in helping people build confidence and aligning my roles to working with beginners.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is not everyone is going to like you and what you do.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is stick to your convictions but be open to change by listening to those around you.
My favourite quote is “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are” – Theodore Roosevelt.
My singing teacher Agnes McCarty is someone who has inspired me to be the person I am.
Sheila Gbolonyo
Head of DEI and Talent Programmes
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve beautiful scenes and imagery, great food, vibrant culture, watersport activities and spa facilities.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be the power to heal.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be amazing at whatever I became when I grew up.
When I read Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by thanking God and listing some things I’m grateful for.
If I didn’t live in London, I’d live in Accra, Ghana.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island (all other basic necessities considered, lol), is a personal chef.
The smartest career decision I have made so far is to invest in myself and obtain certifications in my field.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is to let go of the things I have little influence over and maximise my efforts over the things that I can impact.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is ‘don’t wait to be asked’, ‘it pays to be kind’ and ‘in every role you’re in, make sure you are either learning or earning’.
My favourite quote is “Whether you think you can, or think you can’t – you’re right” – Henry Ford.
My grandma is someone who has inspired me to be the person I am.
Priya Jethwa
Head of Sales and Operations and PMO
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve somewhere zen, peaceful, with greenery and plenty of sunshine.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be being a psychic and teleporting.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be a doctor when I grew up.
When I read The Secret by Rhonda Byrne, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by saying it is going to be a great day and being grateful for everything I have.
If I didn’t live in London, I’d live in Canada or Bali.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is my home and its contents.
The smartest career decision I have made so far is moving to a role where I am happy and working with an exceptional team at the BBBAwards.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is you cannot please everyone, but you still remain professional when things get challenging or difficult.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always treat people with kindness.
My favourite quote is “if at first, you do not succeed, pick yourself up and try again until you reach your goal.”
Mother Teresa and Stacey Solomon have inspired me to be the person I am.
Leila Lawrence
Talent Development and Research Intern
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve dancing.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be teleportation.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be an actress when I grew up.
When I read Communion by bell hooks, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by making coffee.
If I didn’t live in Vienna, I’d live in Paris.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is hair dye.
The smartest career decision I have made so far is to keep studying.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is that you always know less than you think.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to keep gaining skills.
My favourite quote is “comparison is the thief of joy” – Theodore Roosevelt.
My mum has inspired me to be the person I am.
Kundi Manungo
Digital Event and Community Management
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve a luxurious cruise around the world with my family visiting some of the most iconic places.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be a shapeshifter and I’d transform into anything I choose on any day.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be a pilot when I grew up.
When I read The Secret by Rhonda Byrne, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by drinking 30 oz of water, followed by 30 minutes of meditating. Next I read aloud my affirmations to get myself into a positive mind set. After that I take a 15 minute shower and turn on the TV to catch on current events happening across the world.
If I didn’t live in Johannesburg, I’d live in Paris, known for its stunning boulevards and bridges.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is my MAC Extra Dimension Skinfinish powder inspired by the Black Panther movie.
The smartest career decision I have made so far is to pursue a profession I’m most passionate about as it naturally motivates me.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is that not everyone has your best interests at heart.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to venture out and don’t settle.
My favourite quote is “Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice.” And most important “have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.” – Steve Jobs.
Oprah is someone who has inspired me to be the person I am.
Kezia Mbonye
Talent Development and Strategic Research Intern
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve being immersed in different cultures, foods and music.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be waterbending.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be a teacher, like my mum, when I grew up.
When I read A Girl Is A Body of Water by Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by eating a cinnamon bagel.
If I didn’t live in Essex, I’d live in Kampala.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is my paints and canvas.
The smartest career decision I have made so far is to always be authentic to myself in work and life.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is how to balance work and my studies.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to keep “failing forward”.
My favourite quote is “If you have come here to help me, you are wasting your time. But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together” – Lilla Watson
Soma Sara is someone who has inspired me to be the person I am.
Alyssandra Sauve
Project Management and Research Intern
The smartest career decision I have made so far is working with the BBBAwards as it has allowed me to grow as an individual.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is to not allow my failures to restrict me.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is always do what you love and give it your all.
My favourite quote is “It always seems impossible until it’s done” – Nelson Mandela.
My sister Aiva is someone who has inspired me to be the person I am.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be an actress when I grew up.
I start my day by doing my skincare routine.
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve dancing and eating lots of food.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be telekinesis.
If I didn’t live in Toronto, I’d live in New York City.
When I read Becoming by Michelle Obama, it really had an impact on me.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is a designer pair of sandals.
Emily Stanton
Research and Strategy Intern
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve adventure.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be flying.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be a professional horse rider when I grew up.
When I read Eve was Framed by Helena Kennedy, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by going to the gym.
If I didn’t live in London, I’d live in New York.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is my temper foam pillow.
The smartest career decision I have made so far is getting a training contract at Clifford Chance.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is that it’s okay to admit you don’t know how to do something.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is if you believe in yourself, others will soon too.
My favourite quote is “Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s not okay, it’s not the end” – John Lennon.
The whole team at TNON and BBBAs have inspired me to be the person I am.
Libby Thorman
Strategy, Research and Project Management Intern
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve my friends, good food and a sea view.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be to speak all languages.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be a writer/journalist.
When I read Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by making a coffee and reading the Politico London Playbook.
If I didn’t live in Birmingham, I’d live in London.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is a yacht to live on but being more realistic, a good book to keep me entertained.
The smartest career decision I have made so far is taking a year out of my undergrad for my industrial placement year which has forged so many opportunities.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is that mistakes happen and it’s how you learn from them and adapt.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that your technical acumen is expected, it’s how you build relationships that takes you to the next level.
My favourite quote is “When the whole world is silent, even one voice becomes powerful.” – Malala Yousafzai.
My mom is a dedicated, resilient and passionate nurse and is someone who has inspired me to be the person I am.
Jo Thurston
Administrator
If I could invent a holiday, it would involve horses as they are my passion.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be to stop child abuse.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I would be happy when I grew up.
When I read Flowers in the Attic by Virginia Andrews, it really had an impact on me.
I start my day by giving my little boy a hug, and making him breakfast.
If I didn’t live in Devon, I’d live in Amsterdam.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is coffee.
The smartest career decision I have made so far is to start my own business.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is knowing your capabilities.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to be yourself and give it your all.
My favourite quote is “loose lips sink ships”.
My children have inspired me to be the person I am.
Chair and Executive Founder
Sophie Chandauka
Chair and Executive Founder
The smartest career decision I have made so far is to deeply understand what the labels of my identity mean for my career, devise a plan, and never let anyone tell me what I can and cannot be.
The most difficult lesson I have learned so far in my career is that meritocracy is a myth.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is it’s not about the Benjamins, it’s all about the people.
My favourite quote is Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s motto “never complain, never explain”.
My Gogo Eileen Charumbira worked hard as a maid in colonial Rhodesia, enduring unforgivable indignities to ensure my future – she is someone who has inspired me to be the person I am.
When I was five, I was pretty sure I’d be an air hostess when I grew up.
I start my day by checking WhatsApp for my family jams.
If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve fast cars, clear blue water, food and a DJ playing Afrobeats and pop tunes at the villa with my family and friends making up dance routines.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be fixing mistakes we made in the past.
If I didn’t live in New York, I’d live in Cape Town.
When I read The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, it really had an impact on me.
The luxury item I would take on a desert island is a solar powered iPhone with all my apps connected to a lifetime subscription to Starlink.