This week I have a lively conversation with author and literary activist Rasheda Ashanti Malcolm about building platforms for women of colour from the 1990s to today. Rasheda traces her path from founding Candace magazine to writing fiction, creating the WILDE Foundation, running writing retreats in Jamaica, and launching the H&F Writers’ Festival in West London. We explore how technology and community remove old gatekeepers, the healing power of journaling, and WILDE’s future plans to expand retreats, mentorship, and international collaborations. It is an inspiring story of creativity, persistence, and the ongoing work of empowering women’s voices through literature, activism, and connection. Key takeaways: • Community and craft can coexist and strengthen each other. • Journaling helps survivors find voice and confidence. • Technology widens access and continuity beyond physical events. • WILDE seeks collaborators, mentors, and publishing partners to platform emerging writers. We also spent time talking about Jamaica, where Rasheda runs her writing retreats and where I recently attended the Calabash Festival. Sadly, the country has since been hit by Hurricane Melissa and suffered devastating damage. Journalist Nadine White has compiled a helpful list of trusted aid sources here: Hurricane Melissa – How Can We Help   Please do your due diligence before making any donation. You can read more of Nadine White’s reporting here: https://www.independent.co.uk/author/nadine-white. Explore more: Talking Tech with Creatives – talkingtechwithcreatives.com Podcast Instagram – @talkingtechwithcreatives My author website – stellaonithewriter.com Author Instagram – @stellaonithewriter Rasheda Ashanti Malcolm – @ashantirashedaauthor H&F Writers’ Festival – handfwritersfestival.co.uk H&F Writers’ Festival Instagram – @hfwritersfest If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to Talking Tech with Creatives, follow us on Instagram, and share the episode to help amplify the stories of women shaping creativity and culture.

In this episode of Talking Tech with Creatives, I sit down with my literary agent, Francesca Riccardi of Kate Nash Literary Agency, to unpack how publishing really works. Drawing on her 15 years at publishers like Harper Collins, Atlantic Books, and Canelo, Francesca explains the differences between traditional, indie, and self-publishing; what agents actually do; and how deals, rights, and marketing come together. We also talk frankly about author income, why building community matters, and how AI is reshaping the industry and what protections authors need. If you’re a writer, or curious about the business of books—this conversation will help you navigate the landscape with clarity.

In this powerful episode of Talking Tech with Creatives, I’m joined by Dr. Carlton Brown, founder of the UK Black Business Entrepreneurs Conference (BBEC), business strategist, and author of the Black Entrepreneurs Report. Dr. Brown shares his personal journey from watching his Jamaican mother run blues parties and the community padner financial schemes to becoming a leading voice for change in UK entrepreneurship. We discuss what’s really holding Black business owners back—and what must change, from biased lending to lack of market access. We explore: • The “race paradox” and what the data reveals • His vision behind BBEC and its real impact (like a founder getting into                 450 Tesco stores) • Why the US and UK differ in Black entrepreneurial culture • How tech and AI are being used to level the playing field • What the future of inclusive business could look like If you care about innovation, inclusion, and building an equitable business landscape, this episode is a must-listen. Mentioned in this episode: Www.thebbec.com Www.aspire-consultancy.co.uk LinkedIn Dr Carlton Brown  Instagram : @BBEC_UK   Previous guests include:  • Ajay Chowdhury – Tech entrepreneur and author of the Kamil Rahman crime      series • Nanna S. Soenya – Founder of Fundhership  • Obi Asika – Creative industries leader and co-founder of Storm360 • Corina Goetz – Middle East business strategist and founder of Star-CaT • Jendella Benson – Author and Head of Editorial at Black Ballad Follow the podcast and never miss an episode. Host: Stella Oni | Instagram : @stellaonithewriter, @talkingtechwithcreatives Watch on YouTube: @TalkingTechWithCreatives Links to organisations mentioned on the podcast: Foundervine  WeConnect #TalkingTechWithCreatives #BBEC #DrCarltonBrown #BlackEntrepreneursUK #BusinessEquity #RaceParadox #TechAndInclusion #Innovation #DiversityInBusiness

In this episode of Talking Tech with Creatives, I sit down with prize winning crime fiction author and tech entrepreneur Ajay Chowdhury. His career journey spans co-founding Shazam, leading innovative tech ventures, and writing the  Kamal Rahman series. Ajay shares how his early years in India shaped his creative and business mindset, why food, culture, and immigrant experiences run through his fiction, and his frank views on diversity in publishing and the future of AI in writing. We dive into: Building Shazam and seeing it become a global tech phenomenon Winning a major crime writing prize with The Waiter — and how it changed his life Writing authentic immigrant narratives with humour, heart, and high stakes Food as a storytelling device and the joy of making readers hungry Using AI to enhance creativity without replacing the writer’s voice The shifting landscape of tech innovation in publishing and beyond Navigating identity, risk-taking, and success across cultures Whether you’re a writer, tech enthusiast, or just love a gripping story, this conversation blends creativity, innovation, and real-world insights in a way that only Ajay can deliver. Listen now to discover: How to balance creativity and technology in your career, why failure is part of the journey, and what the future holds for both crime fiction and AI. Talking Tech with Creatives podcast Website: https://talkingtechwithcreatives.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TalkingTechWithCreatives Instagram: @talkingtechwithcreatives Host: @stellaonithewriter   Links & Resources Mentioned: Ajay’s Website: https://www.ajaychowdhury.com Ajay on Instagram: @ajaychowdhurywriter Get Ajay’s free interactive thriller here: https://theinvitation.ajaychowdhury.com    

In this episode of Talking Tech with Creatives, I sit down with the dynamic Nana S Soenya, founder of Omega Seven Global Limited. Nanna shares her powerful journey—from her early life in Ghana to becoming a passionate advocate for women’s rights in Mexico. We talk openly about the systemic challenges black and brown women face when trying to secure funding for their ventures. Nana breaks down how she’s tackling these barriers head-on through her bold new initiative, Fundhership, which aims to reshape the funding landscape for women of colour in the UK. This conversation goes beyond funding. Nanna also opens up about her background in high-end hospitality, her love for permaculture, and how she manages to balance a life filled with advocacy, innovation, and personal growth. Whether you’re passionate about women’s empowerment, social justice, tech-enabled funding solutions, or just curious about what it takes to challenge the status quo, this is a must-listen episode. Join me for this inspiring and thought-provoking conversation.

In this episode of Talking Tech with Creatives, host Stella Oni speaks with Dr. Chenai Gondo—a British-Zimbabwean award-winning business strategist and entrepreneur. With a rich background in real estate, PropTech, sustainability, and corporate leadership, Dr. Gondo shares her unconventional journey from synthetic chemist to tech-savvy executive leading multimillion-pound M&A deals and digital transformation projects across Europe and Africa. We explore: What exactly is PropTech and why it matters Strategy 101 for both executives and entrepreneurs How AI is shaping business and real estate today Her personal creative journey as a short story writer and passionate gardener Lessons on leadership, visibility, and self-belief as a Black woman in exclusive industries If you’re curious about PropTech, African innovation, business strategy, and the power of creativity in tech, this episode offers inspiration, insight, and a few laughs.  

In this fascinating episode of Talking Tech with Creatives, host Stella Oni sits down with Corina Goetz, founder of Star-CaT and a leading Middle East business strategist, to explore Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, cultural intelligence in business, and the evolving role of technology in Gulf economies.   Corina shares her personal journey from luxury hospitality to becoming a sought-after cultural advisor for companies wanting to navigate the complex and rapidly changing Saudi business landscape. They discuss the rise of tourism, the importance of relationship-building in Gulf business culture, and the transformative impact of initiatives like the $800 billion Vision 2030 plan.   Key topics include: How foreign businesses can prepare to enter Saudi markets Cultural etiquette and non-verbal cues in Middle Eastern business The role of women in Saudi Arabia’s evolving professional space The rise of social media in Gulf networking and entrepreneurship What luxury means in a Saudi context—art, heritage, hospitality, and beyond   Perfect for entrepreneurs, investors, creatives, and cultural consultants, this episode offers deep insight into how to balance modern technology with rich traditions in one of the world’s fastest-evolving regions.   Guest Info: Follow Corina on Instagram: @starcatcorina Subscribe, follow and like  Talking Tech with Creatives for more global conversations at the intersection of creativity, culture, and technology.

In this episode of Talking Tech with Creatives, I had the pleasure of sitting down with internationally acclaimed bespoke designer Yemi Osunkoya of Kosibah. From sketching bridal dresses as a young boy in Nigeria to becoming a sought-after name in fashion, Yemi shared his remarkable journey—and the mindset that’s carried him through every stage.  We talked about how he blends traditional techniques like corsetry with modern innovations, including his growing curiosity around AI in fashion design. Yemi’s intentional approach to his craft really stood out, as did his reflections on building a fashion business from the ground up, navigating the industry’s challenges, and leaning into both heritage and futuristic thinking.  If you’re into fashion, tech, or creative entrepreneurship, this one’s packed with insights you’ll want to take notes on. Yemi also spoke honestly about the importance of parental support, how he defines the “ideal” fashion figure, and why global collaboration is more important than ever in today’s digital world.  Here’s what we covered:  00:00 – Intro and a bit about me  02:20 – Meet Yemi: childhood inspirations and early dreams  06:08 – Choosing fashion as a career path  13:42 – Pivotal challenges and moments of breakthrough  18:02 – Starting and running a fashion business  21:54 – What keeps him inspired  33:28 – Talking about the “ideal” figure in fashion  34:58 – How technology is shifting the fashion industry  37:57 – The potential of AI in design  43:01 – Collaborating across borders  55:59 – Yemi’s advice for young designers  01:00:06 – What lights him up outside of fashion  If you’re curious about where fashion and technology meet—or just love hearing how creatives make it work—this episode is for you.  Like, comment, and subscribe if you enjoyed the conversation. I’ve got more episodes coming your way where we dive deep into creativity, innovation, and the future of the industries we love.  #TalkingTechWithCreatives #YemiKosibah #FashionTech #AIinFashion #BespokeDesign #CreativeJourney #TechAndCreativity #DigitalFashion #Corsetry #BlackDesigners #NigerianCreatives #SustainableFashion 

In this episode of Talking Tech with Creatives, I speak with Sandra Johnson, a communications and policy expert with a fascinating career journey that spans Whitehall, digital transformation, and creative writing. Sandra, a second-generation Windrush professional, shares insights into building a meaningful career, navigating imposter syndrome, and developing a strong personal brand. We talk about the evolving job market, the importance of soft skills, and how to position yourself in a global and digital world. We also discuss the UK’s recent AI and copyright consultation, which closed in February 2025, and what the outcomes might mean for creatives and technologists. Sandra’s passion for writing children’s books, mentoring, and continuous learning also shines through, making this conversation a powerful reminder that our careers can be as multidimensional as we are. If you’re interested in career development, personal branding, or making sense of where tech is taking us, this episode is for you. Listen in for practical advice, real-life stories, and future-facing ideas.  

In this episode of Talking Tech with Creatives, I sit down with Micallar Walker, founder of Dark Matter Agency, to discuss digital marketing strategies, AI in creativity, and marketing to Black audiences. Micallar shares her journey from working in cinema and film distribution to launching her innovative marketing agency, which specializes in community-driven campaigns and brand storytelling. We explore: • How AI is transforming creative marketing • The future of copyright laws and content ownership • Social media marketing strategies and algorithm hacks • The power of newsletters and SEO for brand growth • Balancing business, creativity, and personal life Whether you are a content creator, digital marketer, or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insightful tips on branding, audience engagement, and the future of digital marketing. Listen now and learn how to build impactful, data-driven marketing campaigns while embracing the latest digital trends. Episode Highlights00:00 – Welcome to Talking Tech with Creatives00:51 – AI in marketing: copyright, automation, and creativity04:34 – Emerging technology: driverless vehicles and future trends05:13 – Meet Micallar Walker, founder of Dark Matter Agency06:30 – Marketing strategies for global markets like Dubai14:51 – Micallar’s career in film distribution and brand marketing17:30 – Launching Dark Matter Agency during COVID and industry shifts30:00 – Challenges and solutions in marketing to Black audiences36:15 – How content consumption has evolved post-COVID36:57 – Instagram Lives and their impact on audience engagement38:08 – Understanding and leveraging social media algorithms38:49 – Why newsletters are a powerful marketing tool41:02 – The role of storytelling in brand success43:43 – Expanding into music, art, and new creative mediums46:24 – SEO strategies and digital marketing growth hacks52:02 – Marketing campaign successes and takeaways01:03:12 – How Micallar balances work, family, and entrepreneurship01:04:58 – Micallar’s personal passions beyond marketing01:08:04 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with Micallar Follow, Like Subscribe, rate, and share. Do not miss out on expert insights into digital marketing, branding, and the creative industry.

In this episode of Talking Tech with Creatives, I sit with Ope Oduwole, Editor-in-Chief of Floor Magazine, to explore the intersection of creativity, technology, and community-building.  The conversation kicks off with a discussion on the UK government’s current AI consultations and the potential impact on creatives. Ope shares his journey in launching Floor Magazine, a platform dedicated to uplifting Black creatives across various art forms. We dive into the role of AI in journalism, how technology is shaping diversity in publishing, and the significance of fostering creative communities both online and in-person.  Episode Highlights:  00:00 – Welcome to Talking Tech with Creatives  01:15 – AI policies and government consultation updates  04:02 – Autonomous vehicles in Cambridge  06:20 – Introducing Ope Oduwole and Flow Magazine  08:01 – The power of community for writers  18:14 – How technology is reshaping publishing  31:02 – Discovering and amplifying Black literature   32:00 – The influence of James Baldwin  35:08 – Building an engaged magazine audience  37:13 – Challenges and rewards of independent publishing  43:37 – Future plans and creative collaborations  48:13 – Balancing creativity, leadership, and life  51:13 – Advice for aspiring creatives  54:19 – Closing thoughts and where to connect    Join us for an insightful conversation on the evolving landscape of creativity and publishing in the digital age.   Corrections This is episode 17.  I keep getting my episode numbers wrong ah ah! For the UK consultation it is Technology companies and not just startups.   Follow links TALKING TECH WITH CREATIVES PODCAST Website: talkingtechwithcreatives.com  Instagram, YouTube, Facebook @talkingtechwithcreatives   FLOOR MAG All Social Media platforms @thefloormag Website: thefloormag.com      

In this episode of Talking Tech with Creatives, I sit down with Jendella Benson—author, editor, speaker, and head of editorial at Black Ballad, a digital platform amplifying Black women’s voices in Britain. We dive deep into her journey as an author, her work in media, and how technology is shaping representation in publishing.   We also discuss the rapid changes in AI, the impact of social media on the publishing world, and the importance of owning your creative work in a digital-first world. Jendella shares insights into her writing process, balancing creativity with career and family life, and her thoughts on the future of diverse storytelling.  Topics We Cover in This Episode:  Jendella’s journey from media and photography to becoming an author The importance of representation and digital platforms like Black Ballad How AI is disrupting media and the ethical concerns surrounding generative AI Social media’s role in publishing and why building a community is crucial Tips for new and emerging writers navigating the creative industry The power of storytelling and what’s next for Jendella Benson Books by Jendella Benson:  Hope and Glory – A powerful British-Nigerian story dealing with complex family relationships and set in Peckham, London. All That We’ve Got – A gripping story exploring community, belonging, and resilience   Why You Should Listen:  If you’re a writer, creative, or someone passionate about diverse storytelling, technology, and representation, this episode is a must-listen. Whether you’re trying to break into media or just love engaging discussions on culture and technology, Jendella brings a fresh and insightful perspective.    Subscribe now and never miss an episode on your favourite podcast platform and on YouTube: https://talkingtechwithcreatives.com/podcast/talking-tech-with-creatives?v=rvlt   YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@TalkingTechWithCreatives      

In this solo episode of Talking Tech with Creatives, host Stella Oni delves into the podcast's mission and her unique journey as a crime fiction author with a career in technology. She explores the impact of AI on creative industries. She outlines the podcast's goals: educating creatives on emerging tech trends, highlighting success stories through interviews, and offering interactive masterclasses. Stella also shares insights from industry events and emphasises the importance of ethical tech practices and human connection in creative work. This episode sets the stage for the podcast's future direction.

In this episode of the Talking Tech with Creative Podcast, I sit down with Alex Bainbridge, a specialist in tourism and technology, to discuss the fascinating ways artificial intelligence is transforming the tourism industry. Together, we explore how AI enhances creativity in travel experiences, from personalized tours to autonomous vehicles. Alex takes us through his journey in travel technology, sharing insights into how the industry has evolved and where it’s heading. We also discuss the balance between using AI to create global connections while preserving the authenticity of local storytelling—a key part of keeping cultural narratives alive in tourism. Here’s what we cover: • How AI is reshaping travel technology • Creative ways AI can enhance tourism experiences • Balancing global AI trends with authentic local storytelling • The role of 5G and autonomous vehicles in tourism • The future of AI-driven personalization in travel and media Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a travel industry professional, or just curious about the intersection of technology and creativity, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Join me as we uncover how AI is shaping the future of tourism!

In this episode of Talking Tech with Creatives, I welcome Abidemi Sanusi, an accomplished author and SEO expert. We dive into her journey from working in human rights to becoming a multi-faceted professional in writing and technology. I also share insights from the recent World Travel Market show in Excel, London, focusing on how AI is influencing the tourism industry. Abidemi offers her expertise on SEO, content strategy, and the evolving role of AI in writing. At the same time, we explore the differences between traditional and self-publishing and discuss why adapting to technology is crucial for today’s authors. 00:00 Welcome to Talking Tech with Creative Podcasts00:28 Introduction to the Podcast and Its Journey01:35 World Travel Markets Experience03:09 Introducing Abidemi Sanusi05:36 Abidemi's Background and Early Life09:10 Journey into Writing and Education17:12 Transition to Digital and SEO21:31 Understanding SEO for Authors26:37 Impact of AI on SEO and Writing29:50 Using AI Tools for Writing and Marketing37:44 Amplifying Author Voices in the Digital Age40:20 Owning Your Writing Journey40:34 The Business of Writing41:19 Balancing Inspiration and Discipline43:02 Overcoming Resistance44:32 Finding Time to Write46:43 Essential Writing Tools and Techniques51:06 The Future of Writing with AI01:01:03 Traditional vs. Self-Publishing01:08:39 Final Thoughts and Resources  

In this episode, filmmaker Tony Abulu shares his journey in the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood’s challenges, and his vision for empowering African storytellers. Abulu dives into the critical role of government support, the potential of the Nigerian diaspora, and the importance of accessible platforms for creative growth. Tune in to hear his passionate insights on the future of Nigerian cinema and the path forward for African creatives.

In this episode, Izu Okafor, a filmmaker passionate about bringing authentic Nigerian stories to the screen, joins us. Izu shares his creative journey, explaining how he started producing and is now making strides toward directing, with an exciting upcoming Israeli-Nollywood project in the works. He talks about the balance between formal education and practical experience, sharing how self-education and guidance from mentors have shaped his career. Izu dives into the challenges of the film industry, especially with streaming platforms acting as gatekeepers, and highlights the importance of grassroots storytelling that connects with Nigerian culture. He encourages young filmmakers to focus on telling authentic, community-driven stories rather than following mainstream trends, emphasising how these unique narratives resonate locally and globally. Please tune in to hear more about Izu’s take on work-life balance, his future aspirations, and his insights on the evolving landscape of Nigerian cinema.

In this exciting episode of the Talking Tech With Creatives podcast, I welcome Bee Kapitan, an augmented reality (AR) expert and a creative technologist. Bee shares her fascinating journey from web design to becoming a leader in AR, virtual reality (VR), and XR (Extended Reality) development. We dive deep into augmented reality, discussing its applications in storytelling and marketing and how authors can leverage AR to create immersive experiences for readers. We discuss how AR can enhance creative projects, including animating book covers, creating interactive merchandise, and engaging readers through digital overlays on physical products. Bee also shares insights from the London Book Fair, her work in XR communities, and some great resources that will support and guide those interested in venturing into AR. Whether you're curious about how to incorporate technology into your storytelling or you're fascinated by the future of AR and its possibilities, this episode is a must-listen. Don't miss Bee's practical tips and inspiration for creatives ready to explore this digital frontier..    

Join Stella Oni on the latest episode of "Talking Tech with Creatives" as she sits down with Gbenga Shokefun, a multi-talented Nigerian-American author, lawyer, and industrialist. Gbenga shares his fascinating journey from an influential creative family to his pivotal role in the Afrobeat genre and the founding of Question Mark Records. Discover his insights on the intersection of technology, creativity, and the transformative power of tech for emerging economies in Africa. Gbenga delves into his passion for history and its importance for Nigerian youth, his innovative book "Adigun," and the need for leveraging AI and technology in African trade and business. He also opens up about his personal hobbies, including horse riding and polo, shedding light on the importance of balancing work and leisure. Tune in for a captivating conversation that explores the past, present, and future of Nigeria's creative and technological landscape.

In this compelling episode of “Talking Tech with Creative podcast ” host Stella Oni sits down with Yetunde Asika, a dynamic leader and advocate for social justice, to explore the transformative power of technology, law, and innovation across Africa. Yetunde, who wears many hats as a mother, social justice activist, and CEO of the African Leadership Council, shares her inspiring journey and insights on how AI and legal tech are reshaping the continent’s legal landscape. Yetunde discusses her work with the African Leadership Council, her passion for philanthropy, and her commitment to advancing democracy and equality. She also delves into her involvement with global human rights initiatives, including the George Floyd campaign and efforts to support communities affected by systemic injustices worldwide. The conversation also touches on the importance of mentorship, particularly in empowering women and fostering leadership. Yetunde emphasises the need for intentionality in creating inclusive spaces and the role of technology in democratising access to justice.