In 2010 I graduated from university with a degree in Media Studies. As part of my degree one of the modules included a 10,000 word dissertation based on a media related topic. After I got over the shock of having to write a 10,000 word essay I thought a lot about what exactly I could write about. It was then I realised I needed to base my work on something I was passionate about and interested in. The result was a dissertation on the representation of Black women in Hip Hop videos. Doing intense research and analysis gave me a deeper insight into how Black women were portrayed in both the media and society. It also provided me with additional knowledge into the history of our stereotypes and misrepresentations. I realised that this was where my passion was so I eventually created a Tumblr blog based on anything and everything from a Black woman’s perspective. Topics were mainly media related, social issues, and beauty and fashion articles. My blog was really successful and gained over 800 followers within a few months; this led me on to create an official website originally titled NubianEmpress.com.
Listen it to hear what I have to say to Jo-Ann, about leaving your comfort zone and honouring your purpose.