RADIATING GREATNESS

Although leadership is ever present, many leaders, outside of sport and entertainment, who serve as role models for what is possible for young Black Britons are often hidden. The impact and influence of positive role models, particularly successful individuals that “look like us”, has been cited by young people as an important influence on their sense of self and confidence.

The five amazing women featured in this first portrait study – Baroness Valerie Amos, Karen Blackett OBE, Dame Vivian Hunt, Dr. Sandie Okoro, and Dr. Samantha Tross

– have shared their personal journeys to demonstrate the excellence present in Britain’s Black community and to show others what can be achieved.

Photographed by award winning artist Franklyn Rodgers, a leader of the Black British Art Movement of the 1990s, this unique and distinctive artistic commission experiments with light and reflections to highlight the inner radiance and strength of each of these remarkable women.

Visible in the photographs are references to African masks and facial markings, a part of Black heritage to denote undergoing rites of passage.

Although there are many interpretations of what makes a good leader, the narrative that runs through all of these women’s stories speaks of their resilience, focus, knowing oneself whilst exploring passions, talent accompanied by hard work, an incredible self-belief and above all striving for excellence.