Canerow: Threads of Intergenerational Leadership is a storytelling series capturing the wisdom, resilience, and vision of Black women leaders across generations. Rooted in the Canerow project, these reflections explore leadership, legacy, and community through the voices of those shaping the future. The full interviews will be included in a print publication and released for Black History Month 2025.
Interview with Mia Morris OBE with Dr. Peggy Warren
Leadership Journey
Mia Morris reflects on her leadership journey, which began in her teens, stating, “I was known as little Mia. As I’ve got older, people often turn to me to say something at events.” She recognises that her role as a community activist has spanned over 40 years. Mia identifies strongly with her heritage: “I’m a black woman first, without a doubt. That’s the first thing that you see. No apology.” Her identity shapes her leadership style, particularly in her role with Black History Maker Black Speakers Bureau.
Mia credits her parents’ influence on her activism. “My dad encouraged us to use our skills… he said, if you’re going to stay, do all that you can to make this country different.” This familial background encourages her ongoing commitment to community support.
Cultural Contributions
Mia coordinates historical projects, emphasising the importance of sharing stories from the Black Women’s Movement: “I said, no, come talk, share your oral history journey.” This work connects her to influential Black figures, like bell hooks, and recognizes the contributions of women in her community, including women like her aunt, who is now 80 and still working for Costco’s. I am lucky enough to have worked with Professor Angela David and Dr Maya Angelou, Diane Abbott MP, Malorie Blackman and Professor Dame Elizabeth Aniowu.
Self-Care and Leadership
Under pressure, Mia values self-care: “Black women just run ourselves ragged… we cannot serve from an empty vessel.” She advocates for personal time, emphasising small acts like wearing lipstick or spending time with friends to recharge.
She believes that comfort and resilience are key to building trust: “You have to be very comfortable with yourself… If my gut does not take to a certain situation, I’m not going there again.” This instinctual approach informs her interactions within the community.
Support and Community
Mia discusses her network, which includes allies from diverse backgrounds: “I’m not one of those black people that lives in a black bubble… I have white allies.” She cherishes shared experiences, such as attending fashion shows and community events.
Learning and Growth
Mia constantly seeks knowledge, reading memoirs and history: “I read a book a week… you have to get hold of [life].” “I’ve had a range of careers – you name it, I have worked with them. I just make it up as I go along.” She attributes her confidence to age and experience, stating, “As I get older, I don’t care; I just get on with things.” A commitment to lifelong learning shapes her approach to personal development.
Advice for Younger Women
Her advice to younger women is simple yet profound: “Take care of your heart and your soul… Don’t turn anything down.” She emphasizes the importance of embracing opportunities without hesitation.
Curiosity About Being a ‘Well-Kept Secret’
When asked why she’s a well-kept secret, she humorously replies, “If I’m big out there, I’ll become exhausted… I’m like a Victorian courtship, revealing my ankle little by little.” This self-awareness underscores her strategic approach to leadership and influence.
Legacy and Recognition
Mia wishes to be remembered for her support of community work: “The good that you do comes back to you.” She shares her experience receiving an OBE for her contributions to Black heritage, noting, “King Charles said you are one of the people that work long and hard behind the scenes.” She encourages us to look for positives in challenges: “the toughest periods can help us reach important realisations.” She also advises, “keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see shadow.”
She remembers her involvement with Akyaaba Addai Sebo and Ansel Wong who created Black History Month in the UK. Community dialogue was woven into the Anti Racist Year Launch and it was continued by the London Strategic Policy Unit.
Her journey signifies resilience and a strong commitment to leadership, community service, and self-care. She embodies a commitment to bringing positive change while advocating for the empowerment of others.
This image of Mia Morris OBE was illustrated by Tinuke Fagborun and commissioned by The Ubele Initiative.
