Dr. Amara Pope was recently interviewed by TheCelebrity.Online Magazine and below is the Q&A session we had with her.
Dr. Amara Pope As Cover Story Interview – February 2024 Edition
How do you introduce yourself?
I’m Dr. Amara Pope, a PhD graduate in Media Studies and a TEDx Speaker with over a decade of marketing experience. My journey in academia and industry work has led me to be interviewed by many media including Billboard, iHeartRadio, CTV, CBC, National Post, VICE, and more. Known for breaking barriers and building brands, I’m eager to evolve as a keynote speaker at national and international events. My talks focus on career development, weaving personal experiences with insightful research. I’m committed to motivating others on the delicate balance of work and life while emphasizing the significance of diverse representation.
Childhood to Adulthood – How was your transition from childhood to adulthood and what are the bad and good things you remember?
My journey from childhood to adulthood has been a profound exploration of self amid cultural diversity and societal expectations. Born in Scarborough, Ontario, to first-generation immigrant parents, my early years were marked by the vibrant mosaic of cultures surrounding me. However, a significant shift occurred when my family relocated to Elmira, Ontario, transforming us into the sole “brown family” in a predominantly white town. I, in turn, became the lone “brown girl” in my school. I celebrated my Trinidadian cultural upbringing while navigating work and school in Southern Ontarian contexts.
Struggle – What hardships have you gone through in life?
The sense of being “otherized” persisted in academia or the corporate world which fueled a profound realization: as I climbed these diverse career and educational landscapes, the more I stood out as a minority woman. This realization stirred a passionate commitment within me to advocate for diverse representation in media, academia, and industry boardrooms.
What do people usually not know about you?
My industry experience spans various roles, ranging from a waitress to positions such as marketing manager, blog manager, account manager, communications coordinator, administrative assistant, brand coordinator, marketing executive, and more.
What sets you apart from your competitors in the industry and in life?
What sets me apart from my competitors both in the industry and in life is my unique combination of my academic rigor in theory and my extensive industry experience across diverse sectors. Having earned my BA, MA, and PhD from different institutions, I bring a depth of theoretical knowledge that enhances my analytical and strategic thinking skills. I’ve operated in sectors as varied as construction, tech, finance, telephone answering, time management software, telematics, and beyond.
What are your upcoming major events?
In the coming months, I will be engaged in several significant events that span academia, media, and advocacy:
- I will be guest lecturing at various universities in the U.S., tailoring my presentations to address topics such as career development, marketing and branding strategies, and my completed PhD study on the rise of Canadian R&B music. It’s an exciting opportunity to engage with students and share insights from my journey.
- I am scheduled for interviews with highly reputable media outlets. During these discussions, I will be sharing my perspectives on work/life balance, academic career, and personal experiences.
- I am actively involved in webinars and upcoming events where I advocate for diverse representation in academia and industries. This includes sharing my experiences, insights, and advocating for inclusivity and equal opportunities.
- This dynamic lineup of events reflects my dedication to academia, media engagement, and advocacy for diversity.
What expert advice would you like to give?
Seize every opportunity. You never know what you will learn and where that knowledge may lead you.
Your social media handles and website links?
- www.DrAmaraPope.ca
- IG: https://www.instagram.com/dramarapope
- FB: https://www.facebook.com/dramarapope
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amara-pope/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/dramarapope
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dramarapope
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dramarapope
R. Harwood is the writer and editor in chief of TheCelebrity.Online – Read more on our About Us page.
