Johnita Due

As a Black woman who has worked in law, journalism and media, Due well knows what it’s like to be the only woman or person of color at the table. That’s why it’s her mission to help, support and mentor women and people of color navigate their own careers, notably through her involvement with LIFT (Leaders Impact the Future of Talent), a division-wide mentoring program. Due also uses her voice to help inform, engage and empower others—not only in the workplace, but through the stories they cover.

“We know from the Clarks’ doll studies that were key to overturning legalized segregation how important it is to be represented and see people like you. That’s why I was so proud of Greta Gerwig and Warner Bros. Discovery for releasing a movie where even though the main character was literally the stereotypical blonde, so many children around the world saw themselves represented in a positive light by the entire cast and the roles they played.”

What is something you have learned by mentoring? There is extraordinary power in mentorship. Being a mentor gives you the ability to uplift, inspire, and coach—but also to learn. I’ve learned the most from mentees who are comfortable challenging me to think differently. Mentors and mentees won’t always see things in the same way because of different lived experiences, and that is where the growth happens for both of us.

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