“Love Island” presenter Maya Jama has launched a new mentorship initiative aimed at supporting marginalised women trying to build careers in the UK’s creative industries. The programme, announced in partnership with the social enterprise Creative Access, will run for six months and pair eight early-career creatives with senior industry figures from Jama’s own professional circles.
The scheme has been developed for women from underserved communities who are at the beginning of their careers. Participants will receive guidance across a range of sectors including TV production, broadcasting, fashion, communications, marketing and talent management. Alongside regular mentoring, the programme also includes a school visit in London and a dedicated event for emerging professionals.
Eight mentors have been confirmed, each bringing experience from across the creative sector. They include broadcaster and entrepreneur Julie Adenuga; Janine Fernandes, VP of global brand marketing at Coty; Issy Lloyd, director of entertainment at Insanity Talent Management; Amanda Stavri, commissioning editor of reality and entertainment at ITV; Francesca Hayward, senior culture and entertainment manager at Diageo; freelance comedy executive producer Carol Baffour-Awuah; Jo Ellison, editor of HTSI at the Financial Times; and fashion designer Priya Ahluwalia, founder of the label Ahluwalia.
Jama said the project is something she has long hoped to create. “This mentorship program is something I have always wanted to do,” she said in a statement. “I’m incredibly excited to be partnering with Creative Access to connect talented young women with eight industry pros who will nurture and guide their careers.”
Creative Access described the initiative as a crucial step in widening access for those who may otherwise struggle to enter the sector. Josie Dobrin, the organisation’s executive chair, said they are “proud to partner with the brilliant Maya Jama on this impactful mentorship program, which will provide a vital stepping-stone for eight talented aspiring creatives.”
Dobrin added: “It is more important than ever to commit to upskilling the next generation of diverse talent, and through mentorship in flagship creative sectors, eight women will gain the support, guidance and access they need to thrive. Without programs like this, the industry risks missing out on the voices and visions that will shape its future.”
