A night to remember
The event kicked off with an electrifying atmosphere as attendees gathered to celebrate DEI in the workplace and beyond. HRH Princess Beatrice attended the occasion, emphasising the collective effort required to foster an inclusive environment. Her closing remarks resonated deeply with the audience: "Success is for all of us. By asking better questions and seeking better answers, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate world."
Esteemed Guests and Insightful Conversations
The evening featured enlightening keynotes and interviews with renowned figures such as Dame Sharon White, Chairman at John Lewis & Partners, David Ajala, star of Star Trek Discovery, Brenda Emmanus OBE and Ajaz Ahmed, CEO of AKQA. Each shared their unique journeys and perspectives on leadership, social mobility, and the importance of representation.
Dame Sharon White captivated the audience with her story of overcoming obstacles and her dedication to removing serendipity from social mobility. David Ajala's heartfelt message about being a beacon of hope and Ajaz Ahmed's journey from humble beginnings to founding a globally recognised company highlighted the power of perseverance and vision.
Panel Discussions and Performances
A standout feature of the event was the panel discussion led by Chloe Hoggard, featuring Dr. Heather Melville OBE, Natasha Frangos, and Mosique Lavontelle. These phenomenal women shared their insights on embracing diversity in the modern workplace, systemic changes in higher education, and the importance of sponsorship and paying it forward. Their contributions sparked meaningful conversations and inspired actionable steps towards a more inclusive future.
The evening also showcased remarkable performances by Sarah Ikumu, Lili Caseley, and Nina Rose, whose talents added a vibrant and emotional layer to the event. Their performances will be produced and released by OTA Sounds, further amplifying their voices.
A Collaborative Effort
OTA Live, founded by Edwin Danso, aims to rival top-tier platforms like TED Talks by transitioning from pre-recorded sessions to live broadcasts across platforms such as YouTube and LinkedIn. This venture underscores OTA's mission to spotlight underrepresented voices and create opportunities for talented individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The OTA Live event marks the beginning of a new chapter, with plans to expand and elevate the platform's impact. Sir Charles Bowman's conversations with influential leaders, combined with the spirit of collaboration demonstrated throughout the event, highlight the potential of business as a platform for positive societal change.
Stay tuned for the upcoming release of all the conversations from OTA Live on YouTube. This event is a testament to the power of authenticity, kindness, and the relentless pursuit of a more inclusive world.
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