Broadcaster and activist June Sarpong OBE lays bare an honest and intimate account of a life spent at the forefront of the fight for inclusivity.
Following a career spanning over twenty-five years, June Sarpong has become one of the most recognisable faces of British television. The recipient of both an MBE and OBE for her work in charity and broadcasting, in 2019 June made history by becoming the first ever Director of Creative Diversity for the BBC.
In this memoir June invites us all into her life. From her early childhood spent in Ghana to her experiences as a black woman forging a career in the media – where she was often the only black person, or woman, in the room – June opens the door to her world and paints a poignant picture of what has helped shape her into who she is today.
The Only One in the Room is a passionate story about breaking down barriers and advocating for equality in all areas of life, and one that will empower others to do the same.
Feminism is often presented as a women's movement, but the truth is that harnessing women's untapped potential will make everyone better off... including men!
Looking to our personal relationships, social and cultural climate and business and economic potential, The Power of Women debunks the myths around feminism, and proves why an intersectional approach to bringing women to the table is key to personal, social and economic progress for society as a whole.
Praise for June Sarpong's Diversify:
'June Sarpong examines the research behind diversity and discrimination while grounding them in personal narratives, highlighting our common humanity.' Kofi Annan, co-recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize
'I am so glad June Sarpong is working on this matter of diversity.' Desmond Tutu
"A passionately written polemic" You Magazine
'An engaging read with lots of important and good ideas' Stylist
'May prove to be our handbook to negotiate these troubled times' Psychologies
The death of George Floyd and subsequent Black Lives Matter protests have made clear to everyone the vicious reality of racism that persists today.
Many of those privileged enough to be distanced from racism are now having to come to terms with the fact that they continue to prosper at the detriment of others. Having spent the last four years researching, writing, and speaking about the benefits of diversity for society, June Sarpong is no stranger to educating and challenging those that have been enjoying the benefits of a system steeped in systemic racism without realising its true cost.
In The Power of Privilege, June will empower those fortunate enough not to be ‘otherised’ by mainstream Western society to become effective allies against racism, both by understanding the roots of their privilege and the systemic societal inequities that perpetuates it. The Power of Privilege offers practical steps and action-driven solutions so that those who have been afforded privilege can begin undoing the limiting beliefs held by society, and help build a fairer future for all.
‘A handbook for these troubled times’ Psychologies Magazine
’Engaging and informative … highlights our common humanity’ Kofi Annan
‘A passionately written polemic’ You Magazine
The truth is, INCLUSION is better for EVERYONE.
In this empowering call to arms, June Sarpong MBE proves why.
Putting the spotlight on groups who are often marginalised in our society, including women, ethnic minorities, those living with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community, Diversify uncovers the hidden cost of exclusion and shows how a new approach to how we learn, live and do business can solve some of the most stubborn challenges we face.
With unshakeable case studies, brand-new research from Oxford University, and six revolutionary steps to help you overcome unconscious bias, this book will help you become part of a better society.
The old way isn’t working. This is a case for change.
