Maria McDowell

Diversity and inclusion aren’t just things I work on—they are part of who I am. As a Black British woman born to Jamaican Christian parents, I have experienced firsthand what it means to navigate spaces where I was often the only one in the room. That experience shaped me, pushing me to not only make space for myself but to help open doors for the next generation of young women.

In my day job as Operations Director for LeSHOP, I manage and oversee the daily functions of a thriving business. But diversity isn’t something that can be separated from my professional life—it’s woven into everything I do. The search for fairness, the desire for openness, and the need to create opportunities for others are part of my very being.

I have dedicated much of my career to mentorship, youth empowerment, and community support. I have served as Head of Mentorship for various non-profits, worked with homeless charities, and created mentorship and internship programmes for young people and school-aged pupils. These initiatives are about more than guidance; they are about showing young people—especially young women of colour—that they belong, that they are capable, and that they deserve a seat at the table.

I am the founder of Lollipop Mentoring, a programme dedicated to nurturing and guiding young people, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. I am also co-founder of Join Our Table, an initiative that fosters inclusivity and brings people together through shared experiences.

Being nominated for a National Diversity Award as a Positive Role Model is a privilege, but the real reward is in the change I see—the young people who gain confidence, the communities that grow stronger, and the individuals who realise their potential. For me, diversity isn’t just a passion—it’s a mission. I will continue to push for fairness, empower those who feel unheard, and work toward a world where everyone, no matter their race, religion, or background, has the opportunity to succeed.