The poems in this book are borne out of some of the author’s own experiences and those of others she has been told about or observed. The poems are accompanied by high-quality black and white photographs and the author’s defining moments: Equality; Racism; Racial Discrimination; Microaggression; Unconscious Bias; Diversity; Unlearn; Inclusion; BAME; People of Colour.

Charlotte Shyllon is black British of Sierra Leonean parentage. She has worked in the corporate world in the UK for over 25 years, rising to the rank of Partner in a top 10 global communications consultancy, before establishing her own consultancy business.

Over the years, in the various companies where she has worked, she has often been the most senior, and sometimes the only non-admin or support staff, UK-based black team member. She has encountered much positive and progressive thinking and behaviour, and worked with colleagues who simply see people first and for whom her skin colour has never been an issue. But she has also encountered both overt and covert racism, and has had to navigate these experiences thoughtfully, while staying focused and motivated.