S3 E2: Identity, Inspiration, and Impact

Claire talks to Annalisa about how she’s doing in the lockdown, her projects, interests, the political climate, and more. Annalisa is an award-winning cultural producer, communications and marketing consultant and launch strategist. With a degree in Theology and an incoming MA in International Public and Political Communication from The University of Sheffield, Annalisa is a member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations and an associate member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing. In 2016, Annalisa founded a leading social enterprise, Our Mel, dedicated to exploring cultural identity, Black history and heritage. Annalisa organises community events, empowering & inspiring people to make positive, sustainable change as well as workshops around equality, racial equity and digital communication. In 2017, Annalisa launched Sheffield’s first Black History Month Festival, a month-long arts and cultural celebration, and became the Vice-Chair of the BAMER hub at Sheffield Equality Hub Network. In 2018, Annalisa started Toccara Laurent Agency, a creative communications agency specialising in brand identity, website design and digital communication. In 2019, Annalisa joined the Board of Directors at Bloc Projects, a visual and contemporary arts organisation based in Sheffield and joined the Board of Directors at Sheffield Creative Guild, a membership cooperative connecting creatives. Annalisa received a Women’s Centenary award in 2018 and was named on the Northern Power Women 2019 Future List, which recognises those who have contributed and are making a difference in their communities, raising awareness of gender equality across the North of England. In 2020, Annalisa received the ATHENA SCR International Young Professional Leadership Award and became a finalist in the Inspiring Women of Sheffield awards. Listen and enjoy! To receive the latest content, subscribe on wherever you listen to podcasts and follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @_introspectives. Check out our website for articles and more: www.introspectives.uk Artwork by Sabrina.