“So, what do you do?” it’s one of the first questions you’re asked (and ask) when meeting someone new. But why is our job title one of the most defining markers of our identity? Surely there’s more to our existence than work? If your sense of self is latched onto your career (and you want to change that) peep the book at the top of this week’s hot links. Also in this episode, 5 tips for moving home and a TikTok account that delivers happy news every day. Yours in growing up, Team Adultish
P.s. We love meeting new people: forward this email or send the View In Browser link at the top to someone who you think will love us back ☝️ |
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Where to start with Mercy? She’s the host of Gen Z career podcast, Audacity of We and the brain behind platforms Into a Black Mind and Strong Black Woman.
“I’m an East African, Black, Gen Z and Scottish babe who has a curious mind, is sarcastic by nature and a storyteller at heart”
She appeared in 2023 Campaign’s Media Week 30 under 30 and was named 2022 BRiM Changemaker. And just recently, she launched The John Doe Group's UNLOCKED Internship Programme for underrepresented emerging talent looking to get their break in the UK’s creative industries.
Check out Mercy’s linktree, and connect on Insta and LinkedIn |
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How have you got your sh*t together recently?
I pack an essentials kit in any bag I take. This includes painkillers, plasters, wired headphones (for when my AirPods die), portable and plug-in charger, hand sanitiser and hand cream – because no one wants ashy hands! If you need it, I've probably got it. For you, what are some of the things that get better with age?
Relationships with the people that matter because growing, maturing and making more memories together is bliss. Rewatching your favourite shows is also so much fun because I’m always finding something new to laugh at with Schitt’s Creek or Abbott Elementary! And I can’t forget travelling – the older you get, the more money you can spend on what you really want to do and where you want to explore. How do you keep on top of news and culture? I work in insights, so keeping on top of news and culture is not only something I enjoy but something I am low-key paid to do. I recommend LinkedIn, Twitter trending topics, TikTok and whatever the algorithm blesses you with, and newsletters! |
So, how did you get into what you do now?
By COMPLETE accident. I started my career working in diversity and inclusion and now I work in insights. I had no plans getting into either industry but graduating in the pandemic and at the height of social unrest, my plans completely pivoted and I’m better for it as both fed my curious mind. For you, how have side projects played a role in boosting your career?
My side projects fuel my passion for storytelling. These include founded platforms, Into A Black Mind and Strong Black Women - which provide a positive lens for Black stories - and my own-produced and hosted podcasts audacity of we and something we gotta talk about. All of these things boosted my career by making me visible.
What advice would you give to someone who’s graduating right now?
Firstly, be happy that you made it, because graduating is no easy feat! Secondly, have conversations with anyone and everyone who can help you get to your next step whether that’s an opportunity or looking for advice. You’ll be surprised at how much people want to help. So, for all the Gen Z grads or anyone starting their career — build a network. Especially a network of mentors (including your peers). |
Outside of work, what are some of the defining factors that make you who you are? My family — the biggest and best support system I have been blessed to be born into.
My heritage — being a Tanzanian babe with a Glaswegian heart, my sarcasm thrives but I’m still low-key an empath, which is the perfect combo. My faith — in myself and God because I truly believe everything happens for a reason and all good things that are meant for us will come to us.
What’s something that you like about yourself? I have a positive mindset, almost to a fault. Some may call it delusion but so many good things are happening to me that I can only choose to lean into it! If I want something and it feels right, it’s likely to happen…I just don't know when (and that’s the hard part!)
How would you describe your personal style? Has it changed? Comfort has always been key to me when it comes to what I wear. Being a former gymnast and then coach, my athleisure days had a strong run. As an adult now, I’m exploring my style for my 5ft1 self, but I’m loving bright colours right now and a thick heel for nights out. As long as it’s cute, comfortable and a bit of me — I’ll be wearing it! |
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Mercy's recommendations 🫶
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THREAD OF THE WEEK (sorry Elon) |
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Disclaimer: Just a head's up, we're not responsible for the content in any third-party links, and our guests don't give financial advice - we recommend you seek this independently from a qualified professional. If you buy books that we've linked to from Adultish, we may earn a commission from Bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops.
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