My story begins with my parents, who were part of the Windrush generation. They arrived in the UK 1960, seeking opportunities and a better future. My father came first, working hard as Scaffolder and Brick layer in the construction industry until he could afford to purchase a plane ticket for my mother to join him. Together, they settled in London and built a life, despite the many challenges they faced.
Both my parents lacked the basic literacy for coping with most jobs and everyday situations My father worked tirelessly in construction, while my mother held several jobs from working in hotel kitchens to cleaning jobs, often bringing me along to help. We lived in a small two-bedroom council flat, and as the youngest of three children, I slept on a sofa bed in the living room. Despite the low living standards, I remember us being happy kids, making do with what little we had.
Lessons in Resilience and Work Ethic
Growing up, my parents instilled a strong work ethic in me. By the age of eight, I was ironing my own clothes, and by ten, I was cooking for myself. I was a latchkey kid, often left to my own devices while my parents worked long hours. Today, such independence might raise eyebrows, but for most low income households, it was simply how life was.
My father was determined to teach me the value of vigorous work. He lined up many odd jobs for me. These experiences, though challenging, shaped my understanding of perseverance and responsibility.
Education as a Gateway
Education wasn’t a priority for my parents; they didn’t fully understand its value due to a 1930s upbringing in the Caribbean and lack of opportunity. Yet, they supported me in their own way. I attended a grammar school thanks to the support of the local catholic church doing relatively well in entrance exams.
At school, I found refuge. I stayed late, immersing myself in sports and spending hours in the library. One teacher in particular took an interest in me, offering guidance and support throughout my time there. It was during these years that I realised my path wouldn’t follow the traditional route. I needed to start working early and find a way to balance earning a wage with ongoing development.
Entering the World of Technology
At 16, career fairs opened my eyes to opportunities in technology. Although I didn’t initially have a passion for tech, I discovered I had a knack for STEM subjects. I landed an apprenticeship as an analyst developer at 18, working for a global data services firm. This role allowed me to earn a wage, help mum and dad while pursuing my qualifications, laying the foundation for a career in technology.
Carrying the Fire Forward
Reflecting on my journey, I see how my parents’ sacrifices, and work ethic fuelled my drive. Their resilience taught me the importance of staying focused, disciplined, and striving for improvement. From growing up in a modest council flat to building a career in tech, every step has been guided by the lessons I learned from them.
I share this story not to dwell on challenges but to highlight the enduring strength of those who persevere against the odds. Stories like mine are not unique—they are still unfolding across the UK and beyond. They remind us of the power of resilience, the importance of opportunity, and the impact of support.
Whether you’re at the start of your journey or reflecting on your own path, remember: where you begin does not define where you can go. Let your experiences fuel your ambition, and never stop striving for improvement, if that motivates you.
From YTS to Career Growth: Lessons in Accountability and Resilience
Starting my career in technology was no walk in the park. I began my career on a Youth Training Scheme (YTS), a program that offered young people a chance to gain work experience and qualifications. But let me tell you—it was no handout. The assessment process was rigorous, and the expectations were high.
Every six months, we were evaluated to determine if we could stay in the program. This wasn’t just a formality; it was intense. If your performance didn’t meet the standard, you were released from the program. There was no room for complacency.
Accountability and High Standards
One of the most demanding aspects of the role was the focus on quality. Every piece of code we wrote was thoroughly reviewed and quality-controlled. If your work didn’t improve over time, your position was at risk.
This level of personal accountability is something I don’t always see as much in today’s work environment. During this period, it wasn’t just about doing the job; it was about doing it exceptionally well, even as a trainee. That discipline and focus on excellence became foundational to how I approached my career.
Learning on the Job
In addition to work, I attended College once a week. Balancing on-the-job learning with academic studies wasn’t easy, but it was invaluable. The program wasn’t just about gaining experience; it was about proving yourself capable in a competitive environment.
Thriving in Adversity
Despite the challenges, I managed to thrive in that environment. The lofty expectations, relentless assessments, and the need to continuously improve shaped me into a disciplined and resilient professional. Looking back, those early years taught me lessons that have stayed with me:
Accountability matters. When you know your work will be scrutinised, you learn to take pride in its quality.
Growth comes from challenges. The pressure to perform pushed me to learn faster and adapt.
Excellence is a habit. Developing high standards early in my career set the tone for everything I’ve done since.
The Legacy of Hard Work
That experience, while tough, gave me the tools to build a lasting career in technology. It also reminded me that growth doesn’t come from comfort—it comes from stepping up, being accountable, and embracing challenges.
If you’re just starting out, don’t shy away from tough environments. Those are the places where you’ll learn the most and develop the resilience, you’ll need for the rest of your career.
Reflections on a Non-Traditional Career Path
Looking back on my career, I often think about how my journey differed from the traditional route. I started young, working alongside adults as a shy teenager who had to grow up quickly. While many of my peers were enjoying university life, I was navigating the workplace, learning on the job, and figuring out how to thrive in an adult world before I was fully ready.
The Early Start: A Double-Edged Sword
Starting my career early had its advantages. By my early 20s, I was already buying property—an opportunity that feels almost unimaginable for Generation Z . Those early experiences shaped me into who I am today, teaching me responsibility, discipline, and resilience.
But it wasn’t without its costs. Starting young meant missing out on the traditional university experience. While my peers were building social networks and exploring life at their own pace, I was already working on personal development plans. By the time my peers entered the workforce, I had years of experience but also years of fatigue. There’s a certain weariness that comes with starting early—by the time others catch up, you’ve already weathered many years of challenges.
The Ups and Downs of the Journey
My career has been a blessing, but it hasn’t been without its struggles. I started at the lowest rank, working my way up through sheer determination, hard work, and a bit of serendipity. There have been high points—ambitious roles and many opportunities. I’m incredibly proud of—but also low points that tested my resolve.
What has made the difference along the way are the people who’ve helped me. None of us achieve success alone. I’ve been fortunate to have mentors, colleagues, and supporters who guided me, believed in me, and opened doors I couldn’t have opened on my own.
Core Values That Endure
Through it all, a few core values have remained central to who I am:
Hard Work: My upbringing instilled a relentless work ethic that continues to drive me.
Curiosity: I’ve always been eager to learn, adapt, and grow—qualities that have been invaluable in a constantly evolving career
Collaboration: I genuinely enjoy working with people, helping them realise their potential, and learning from them in return.
A Career Built Together
I often say my career is the result of many people’s inputs. While I’ve worked hard to get where I am, I’m also the product of countless acts of kindness, guidance, and support.
For those starting out or reflecting on their own journey, I’d say this: there’s no one-size-fits-all path. Whether you start early or late, whether your journey is linear or filled with twists and turns, the key is to stay curious, work hard, and embrace the people and opportunities that come your way. Success isn’t just about where you end up—it’s about how you grow along the way.
A Journey Fuelled by Reflection and a Desire to Contribute
Your question about the inspiration behind my journey is both thoughtful and complex. It touches on something I reflect on often: what is this journey really about?
For me, it’s not just one journey—it’s a collection of paths that intertwine, each driven by a deep desire to contribute and leave a meaningful social impact. Let me break it down into two parts, as you suggested: the “why” behind this journey and the “how” it continues to evolve.
Why I Began
I’ve always been deeply reflective, often looking at life through the lens of “have I done enough?” This mindset was shaped by reading autobiographies of people in their later years—those reflecting on decades of life. A recurring theme in their stories is the fear of missed opportunities, the lingering question of whether they truly made an impact.
That resonated with me. I realised, at some point, that I wasn’t doing enough—not for allyship, not for social impact, not for the causes I deeply care about, like DE&I. Despite having built a solid skill set and a career I’m proud of, I could do more, to contribute in ways that truly matter.
This isn’t to say that personal achievements like building a family and supporting loved ones aren’t meaningful—they absolutely are. But for me, that’s just one piece of the puzzle. I wanted to look back and feel that I had used my abilities, my platform, and my energy to create broader, lasting change.
How the Journey Evolved
This desire to contribute is why I’m involved in many social causes. I’m drawn to opportunities where I can have an impact—whether it’s mentoring, advocating for diversity, or driving social initiatives. But I’ll be honest: I don’t think I’ve figured it all out yet.
I’m constantly exploring ways to do more, and I suspect this will be a lifelong process. There’s a part of me that believes the real work will come later, as I step away from executive roles and have the time and space to take on bolder, more ambitious projects.
A Hunger to Keep Growing
At its core, my journey is fuelled by a hunger to improve, to help, and to create. While I feel I’m doing more now than I have in the past, I also know I’m not doing nearly enough. There’s always more to learn, more to give, and more to achieve.
In the end, I hope this journey will reflect a life of growth, contribution, and connection. Whether through the roles I’ve held, the people I’ve supported, or the causes I’ve championed, I want to leave behind a legacy that speaks to the values I hold dear: hard work, curiosity, and a deep commitment to social impact and advancement.
And if there’s still more to do? That’s the beauty of the journey—it’s never really over.
The Driving Force Behind It All
When I reflect on the driving force behind my journey, I realise it’s deeply rooted in my upbringing and the experiences that shaped my family’s story. It’s not something materialistic, nor is it purely about financial security—it’s a relentless desire to improve, to overcome, and to honour the sacrifices my parents made.
The Reflection of Time
Now, as I look back, I understand this drive more clearly. It wasn’t just about ambition—it was about healing, about proving to myself and my parents that we could overcome the barriers that had held us back.
It’s why I often remind my children how fortunate they are. They live in a world so different from the one I grew up in, and while they may not fully relate to my experiences, I hope they carry the values of resilience, gratitude, and the drive to always do better.
A Simple Yet Profound Motivation
If I had to sum it up, the driving force is this: to improve and to honour the sacrifices of those who came before me. It’s not profound in a philosophical sense, but it’s deeply personal and meaningful. It’s about growth—not just for myself, but for my family and the generations to come.
Lessons From My Mother: Resilience, Empathy, and Adaptability
Growing up, my mother taught me invaluable lessons—ones you don’t learn in classrooms but through lived experience. She was a woman of incredible strength, juggling several jobs, raising three children and a granddaughter, and always finding a way to lighten even the darkest days with her storytelling and humour.
Her stories were her way of making sense of the world for us, softening the blows of life while instilling resilience. I still remember her urging me to go to school even on days I dreaded it, knowing I might face bullies. Those moments toughened me, gave me a hardened shell, and taught me to confront challenges head-on.
The Value of the Grind
One of the greatest lessons my mother imparted was the value of hard work—what we now call “the grind.” No matter what the day looked like or what challenges lay ahead, she believed in getting up and working through problems. That work ethic has stuck with me. It’s a simple but profound truth: Everyone can grind.
She also taught me the importance of resilience—not just enduring but thriving through adversity. Watching her balance multiple jobs while still managing to bring laughter into our home taught me the power of perseverance and positivity.
Reading the Room
My mother had an uncanny ability to read a room and make people laugh. She could connect with anyone, and that’s a skill I’ve carried into my career. Whether it’s engaging with boards, committees, or teams across the globe, understanding the dynamics of a room and adapting to it has been invaluable.
At the highest levels of leadership, the ability to read people and situations—to listen, empathise, and adjust—is critical. It’s not about being disingenuous but about recognising the patterns in how people make decisions and interact. That said be true to yourself.
Adapting to Every Walk of Life
As a global leader, I’ve worked in countless countries and cultures, and the lessons my mother taught me have been my compass. Her advice that life would be tough because of my differences, and that I’d have to work harder, wasn’t just a warning—it was preparation.
Being curious, listening actively, and staying adaptable have served me well. While every individual is unique, you begin to notice patterns in behaviour across cultures. Learning to subtly adapt without losing your authenticity has been one of the most important skills in my personal and professional journey.
The Toolbox for Life
Looking back, I realize how much of my “toolbox” comes from my mother. Traits like resilience, empathy, adaptability, and humour weren’t taught—they were demonstrated. These tools have shaped my interactions, my career, and my leadership style.
I’m deeply grateful for those lessons and use them daily, whether navigating complex professional landscapes or simply engaging with the world around me. They’re a testament to my mother’s strength and wisdom, and they continue to guide me as I strive to honour her legacy.
A Defining Experience in Allyship
When I think about allyship, one pivotal experience stands out—a lightbulb moment that reshaped how I understood its importance and power.
I was a young software developer working in a program team, and the program director—a black man—was someone I deeply admired. He was a figure of quiet authority, someone who stood tall, surveying the office floor like it was his empire. I remember being in awe of him, observing his confidence and leadership.
One day, he broke the unspoken distance between himself and the team and came over to talk to me. That single interaction became the start of something transformational. He took an interest in my growth, asking me about my ambitions. At the time, I didn’t even have an answer. I was just happy to be working.
Seeding Ambition
What followed was a series of conversations, meetings, and mentorship that fundamentally changed my trajectory. He gave me books to read—books I would never have chosen myself—and would discuss them with me, drawing out lessons and insights. He pushed me to think beyond my current role, challenging me to see a future where I could lead.
At one point, he encouraged me to take on a leadership role within a development work-stream, carefully considering my age and experience to ensure it would be a manageable step forward. Over time, he built my confidence, helped me develop my skills, and planted the seeds of ambition.
Allyship in Action
That experience taught me what allyship truly means. It’s about more than just offering support; it’s about actively investing in someone’s potential. It’s about creating opportunities, sharing knowledge, and helping others see a future they might not have imagined for themselves.
What made his allyship even more impactful was that he didn’t have to do it. He had no obligation to mentor me, yet he chose to invest his time and energy. That choice is what I now try to emulate in my own approach to allyship.
Paying It Forward
Today, I make a conscious effort to support others in similar ways. Whether through LinkedIn conversations, coaching, or simply sharing my story, to inspire and guide others. I’ve learned that allyship isn’t just about opening doors—it’s about helping people recognize doors they didn’t even know existed.
I’ve also expanded my understanding of allyship beyond race or gender. I’ve started focusing on neurodiversity and other areas of inclusion, ensuring my efforts are balanced and reflective of the diverse challenges people face.
The Broader Impact
My experience with that program director wasn’t just about personal growth—it was about understanding the ripple effect of allyship. His belief in me not only transformed my career but also shaped how I approach leadership, mentorship, and inclusion today.
Allyship is a commitment to lift others as we climb, and that commitment is something I carry with me every day. I aim to embody the same principles of allyship that were shown to me.
The Influence of Role Models and Allyship
Reflecting on my career journey, I’ve realized that the most significant influences have come from a combination of personal and professional role models. First and foremost, my mother remains my greatest inspiration—she’s always been my superhero. Her resilience, determination, and work ethic have shaped how I approach life and leadership. But in my professional life, I’ve also encountered people who looked like me, individuals who were in senior roles I never thought possible to attain. Seeing people who shared my background in leadership roles was pivotal for me.
One moment that stands out occurred midway through my career. I was meeting with a partner from a search firm, seeking my next career move. In a rather formal setting, the partner casually mentioned, “See that chap over there? You need to look like him.” She was referring to a middle-aged white man, who seemed to fit the traditional mould of what senior leadership looked like at that time. But I knew I wasn’t going to fit that mould. I realised I couldn’t emulate him—I needed to be myself. Luckily, I was able to land a major role as a CIO in a financial services firm, not by imitating others, but by staying true to my approach. That experience was empowering, as it reinforced the importance of being authentic and finding my own way.
Leadership Evolution: From Skill Sets to Team Dynamics
As my career progressed, I began to realise that leadership was not just about the individual skills of team members—it was about the overall dynamics of the team itself. Early in my career, I focused primarily on what skills I needed for a specific role. But when I moved into larger leadership positions, such as program director running significant change programs, I saw the importance of building well-balanced, functional teams.
I realised that without attention to team composition, I risked having high performers who, while excellent individually, might compete against each other in unhealthy ways. This shift in perspective made me understand that leadership is not just about delivering results but also about fostering collaboration and ensuring that everyone in the team has a role that aligns with both their strengths and the team’s goals.
This evolution in my leadership style didn’t happen overnight. It came with experience, and I began to invest more in understanding leadership theory and taking courses to refine my approach. I learned that building a cohesive, well-rounded team is essential to long-term success, and that an effective leader must be attuned not just to individual performance, but also to how the team interacts, communicates, and collaborates.
Allyship in Leadership
Allyship has deeply influenced my leadership style. Early on, I didn’t consciously focus on building diverse teams or being an ally in the workplace. But as I matured in my career, I realised that leadership is about more than just directing; it’s about lifting others up, giving opportunities to those who may not have them, and being mindful of the diverse backgrounds and perspectives within a team.
I also learned that allyship is a responsibility—one that extends beyond supporting causes to actively creating environments where people from different walks of life can thrive. Today, I’m committed to not only being a better ally to others but also to using my platform to help others see opportunities they might not have otherwise. I aim to continue paying it forward, just as I had the privilege of receiving support and guidance throughout my own journey.
Best Piece of Advice on Being an Ally
The best piece of advice I’ve received regarding allyship isn’t about specific words someone shared with me, but rather the journey of finding my own voice and becoming comfortable with it. Early in my career, I didn’t have the agency or presence to call out biases or prejudices in the workplace. I was just hustling, trying to make a living and support my family. But over the last two decades, as my career grew, I realised the importance of using my voice to address what I saw.
Advice for Aspiring Leaders on Becoming Better Allies
For aspiring leaders, my advice would be to find your community—both within and outside of your organisation. In my early career, there weren’t as many formal communities focused on diversity and inclusion, but today there are many more opportunities to get involved. Many organisations now have affinity groups and networks that are not just token gestures but have real sponsorship and financial backing. These communities can help you find your voice, provide support, and allow you to advocate for those who may not have the same opportunities.
One of the things I’ve observed is that it’s important to support causes that may not seem to directly impact you but need to have more prominence in your industry. Whether it’s promoting individuals from underrepresented backgrounds or supporting initiatives that aim to level the playing field, these causes matter. Don’t be afraid to step up, even if it feels like a bit of a taboo or uncomfortable at first.
If you’re really brave, and if your organisation doesn’t have a community for these causes, be the first to start one. Create a space for others to gather, share experiences, and support each other. Leadership is about paving the way for others, and sometimes that means being the one to take the first step.
Ultimately, being an ally is about having the courage to speak up, listen, and support others, especially those who may not have the same opportunities or platform.
