March 6th: Today’s Feature

March

Melanie Veronique Eusebe MBE (born 12 March 1977) is a British entrepreneur and author, known for co-founding the Black British Business Awards in 2014. She has written for publications such as The Huffington Post and Management Today. She serves on the board of the Creative Industries Federation and teaches as a professor at the Hult International Business School in London.

Early Life and Education

Eusebe was born in England and grew up in Canada of Trinidadian-Dominican heritage, with her mother being a psychiatric nurse who "worked two jobs". Eusebe has said: "I was raised with black and white friends. I went to a predominantly white school.... Coming to London changed my black experience. In terms of my Caribbean-ness, it is just me. It is part of me, not all of me.” After graduating from the University of Toronto, she gained a master's degree in Philosophy (Ethics) from Birkbeck College at the University of London.

Career

Eusebe embarked on her professional journey as a seasoned management consultant and strategist, dedicating over 17 years of her expertise to renowned global brands like IBM and Ernst & Young. However, her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish her own business services consultancy, The Fresh Ideas Company. In addition to her thriving consultancy, Eusebe also serves as an adjunct professor at Hult International Business School, specialising in Leadership and Management Skills, where she imparts her extensive knowledge to aspiring business leaders.

The Black British Business Awards

Driven by her passion to unearth role models and inspire the next generation of leaders, Eusebe, in collaboration with international corporate finance lawyer Sophie Chandauka, co-founded The Black British Business Awards (BBBAs) in 2014. This prestigious initiative, supported by esteemed partners such as Everywoman, The Telegraph, and Evening Standard, aims to recognise and celebrate the achievements of Black professionals in the business world, fostering a more inclusive and diverse landscape.

Broadcasting and other media work

Eusebe's commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond her consultancy and awards initiative. She actively engages with various educational institutions, serving as a mentor to students and imparting invaluable guidance. Furthermore, Eusebe's expertise and eloquence have made her a sought-after speaker, lecturer, and broadcaster.

She has graced the screens of BBC television and radio programs, including BBC News at Six, What The Papers Say, and Radio 4's Today, where she shares her insights on a wide range of topics. Additionally, Eusebe hosts her own show on Colourful Radio and has contributed her thought-provoking articles to esteemed publications such as Huffington Post and Management Today.

Eusebe is actively involved in multiple boards, including the Creative Industries Federation, where she contributes her expertise and knowledge to support the growth and development of the creative industries.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to promoting diversity in the business sector, Eusebe was honoured with the prestigious appointment as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) during the 2021 Birthday Honours.

Demonstrating her unwavering dedication to championing diversity throughout her career, Eusebe received an honorary degree from the esteemed University of Exeter in July 2023. The degree, Doctor of Laws (LLD), was bestowed upon her as a testament to her remarkable commitment and efforts in advancing diversity in various spheres.