POCC is an influential creative community and support network dedicated to accelerating equality for ethnically diverse individuals in the creative industries. Since its founding in 2018, POCC’s evolution to offer creative studio services has driven meaningful transformation through bold campaigns for some of the world’s leading brands, including Apple, Nike, Netflix, Disney, BBC and more. Through this work POCC challenges traditional ideas, behaviours, and structures, paving the way for lasting change.
How long have you worked in Haringey, and in which part of the borough do you work?
I have lived in Bruce Grove, the best part obviously, since 2018, and also work here.
As a creative and activist, how has Haringey influenced you?
The borough itself is rooted in both those things. The fact that Bernie Grant was here as the first Black MP and the spirit that that carries - being a Black woman who centres and focuses on marginalised communities, it's inspirational to know he was an MP within this area. And also his legacy in terms of the things that he did for the local community, and specifically the Black community, lives on. Following on from him, people have fought against injustice and made their voices heard when the community have been wronged by those in power, that, I believe, is fundamental to the people of the borough and that spirit is very much present and alive within the area.
What is your definition of a rebel?
The word rebel is an interesting one as for me, it's fundamentally rooted within power. Power was a key theme throughout my Masters in Empires, Colonialism and Globalisation at LSE. The people with power would have you believe that they are always the ones in the right, they see a rebel as someone who is in the wrong, and this perspective has weight and dominance because of the power they hold. I see a rebel as someone who is rising up against powers for what they believe is right.
What’s the best careers advice you’ve received?
Do what makes you happy, and you'll never work a day in your life. Obviously you can't just go raving all day as you still need to eat and pay the bills, but if you can find a job that makes you happy, where you enhance the lives of others, even in a small way, clarity around how it could sustain you will emerge.
When and where do you feel at your most powerful?
I would say amongst community. Feeling the collective power of people coming together is where I get that sense. POCC was started because Black and Brown people working within advertising and creativity didn't feel seen, and didn't feel heard and being able to create that space and have that voice very much made us feel that we had more power collectively than we did as individuals. There is an inherent strength in the power of collective action and community.
What would be a dream contribution to Haringey’s year as the London Borough of Culture?
A dream contribution would be more of an outcome rather than a specific delivery. I would like the outcome, whatever it may be, to be reflective of the long-standing community that has been within Haringey and Tottenham for years and years. Something that respects, appreciates and most importantly invests in that community.
What’s the funniest thing you’ve heard or read about yourself that isn’t true?
Ha. That I'm rude and aggressive, it couldn't be further from the truth, but as a Black woman who is in a leadership position and gets things done – like, make of that what you will…
What is your favourite hidden Haringey gem?
It has to be ‘Durak Tantuni’ on West Green Road, a Turkish spot with just one thing on the menu. When I want a treat for lunch I’ll go there. They do these delicious wraps with minced lamb, spices, coriander, chillies and then you squeeze some lemon on, oh my gosh it's amazing! I also hear good things about the Somalian ‘Brothers Café’ on the High Road, I’ve never been but it’s on the list.
Which other Haringey creative would you spotlight and why?
I want to spotlight Kierra Campbell, who is also on the Made By Tottenham advisory board and there for very much the same reasons. Her company ‘Poodle & Blonde’ makes hand designed wallpaper and fabric inspired by vintage finds, really beautiful designs. She's also a mother whilst running a business which is never easy so you always have to put respect on that.
Made by Tottenham aims to support the local creative economy, freelancers and businesses by offering business advice and guidance, skills & training and a platform for news, events and opportunities. Visit the Made by Tottenham website to explore a directory of vibrant local creatives. Made by Tottenham have a meet up for local creatives coming up on 17 July - full details here.
Want to get regular content like this straight to your inbox? Sign up for our London Borough of Culture newsletter for updates on cultural happenings right across our Rebel Borough, and information on how you can get involved as we gear up for our London Borough of Culture year.
