Ann-Marie

Tell us about your journey into tech?
After completing my studies in Graphic Design at Kingston and Interdisciplinary Design in Reading I got my first job in web design at a startup by working one month for free. They liked me and I them so I stayed on until getting a job in digital design at Tesco.com in Welwyn Garden City. On leaving  I got a job designing website at News International. After around 3 years I joined the Royal Bank of Scotland As a digital experience manager helping to develop their mobile banking proposition. After 6 months the department closed and I landed a job at MRM London. I then went on to work for Sapient as a User Experience manager. Other agencies I’ve worked at include Think, Tobias & Tobias and JWT. After having my Son I took 13 months maternity leave. I now lead a team of User Experience Designers at Iris Worldwide and am an active member of the DE&I team working with the organisation to make transformational change in racial equality for themselves and the advertising industry.

How do you feel you have made a difference in what you do?
Empathy. Care for other humans. Passion for people and interest in how tech can serve humanity better. Coming from a working-class, second-generation Caribbean background also bring a unique perspective on world issues.

What would you say is your biggest achievement?
Just by being in this space as a black woman and still blowing peoples minds with my alternative views is enough in itself! Inspiring others to start their careers in design and tech. Having a baby, then getting back to work stronger and more passionate than ever. Mentoring young people.

How do you think people can go about making a difference, in regards to spreading awareness of Black Women in tech?
Host more open events. Target specific companies. Go to the industry press with stories, research and alternative perspectives on tech issues. Now is the time!