Industry Trailblazers
Posted on July 7, 2020 in Oxford
In this first episode of our new series on diversity in publishing, SYP Oxford have spoken to 4 authors and publishers about their takes on diverse employment and representation in the book industry. The video above includes industry pioneers, Maame Blue, author with the Jacaranda #Twentyin2020 initiative, Jasmine Richards, author and founder of Storymix, and Alice Curry, CEO of Lantana Publishing.
Read author Sareeta Domingo’s take on the industry’s diversity issues below, and see links at the end of this post for all the speakers’ details.
“I’m Sareeta Domingo, and I’m the author of books including The Nearness of You (Piatkus/Little, Brown), Love, Secret Santa (Hachette Children’s), the upcoming If I Don’t Have You (Jacaranda Books) and an anthology of romantic fiction written by British women of colour, Who’s Loving You (Trapeze/Orion Books, Feb 2021). I’ve also worked in publishing for well over a decade in an editorial capacity, initially in children’s fiction, most recently as a Commissioning Editor at Harlequin Mills & Boon, an imprint of Harper Collins.”
What are the current issues surrounding diversity and inclusivity in publishing that you are aware of?
“The current issues around diversity and inclusion are largely the same that are faced in most industries — the slow progress of diversifying the workforce at all levels. While some progress is being made, I think there needs to be a greater sense of ensuring this philosophy of inclusion becomes an integral part of the industry, and not only at entry level through internships and assistant-level roles, or commissioning of debut authors. Publishers need to work hard to nurture the diverse talent they may already have, as that’s just as important.”
A lot of our members are at the start of or early in their careers. What wishes or advice do you have for the next generation of people in publishing?
“Well one thing to bear in mind is not to be put off if you can’t get a role in the department you initially believe you’d like to work in.
Firstly, because there are so many areas to publishing, and so many different and interesting disciplines you could use. You may not be aware that there is an area of publishing you’d be perfect for! And in terms of inclusion, it would be great to see a greater range of backgrounds, abilities, sexual orientations and all other aspects of diversity within all areas of publishing. It’s very key to have that inclusivity across departments — sales, marketing, editorial, publicity, design etc.
Additionally, just because you start your career in one area doesn’t mean you can’t find yourself working in the department that was your initial dream! For example, I worked in the Sales and Marketing department for a few years when I first started in publishing, but then was able to transition over to editorial! It’s all about getting your foot in the door, and then capitalising on opportunities when they arise. Don’t be afraid to go for something you don’t ‘think’ you’re suited for, because I can guarantee you there are others out there who don’t view that as a concern and will be going for it!”
What would you recommend to someone wishing to work in publishing but worrying about their career perspectives due to bias?
“Biases do exist, and there’s no point pretending they don’t. However, you should focus on what you are able to control, not what others may think or what preconceived notions they may have. I’d advise focusing on your own abilities and making the most of them, putting your best foot forward and not allowing the fear of bias to hold you back from pursuing your career goals. Carry yourself with the same confidence as any other candidate, and keep in mind that the publishing world truly needs you!”
Speakers:
Maame Blue, author with #Twentyin2020, Jacaranda. Buy ‘Bad Love’ now!
Jasmine Richards, founder of Storymix
Alice Curry, CEO of Lantana Publishing
Sareeta Domingo, author with #Twentyin2020, Jacaranda. Buy ‘If I Don’t Have You’ now!
Important links:
Jacaranda’s #Twentyin2020 initiative
Penguin’s guide for how to support black authors and publishers
Some booksellers and publishers who prioritise diverse representation:
Listen to the podcast 
Explore the Youtube channel