During turbulent times, Due believes in supporting an inclusive culture. When the DEI landscape shifted this year, she actively engaged staff by providing forums to answer questions. In October, she was recognized by WBD Pride NorAm National Leadership Team, the business resource group for WBD’s community of LGBTQ+ employees, for being a firm believer and supporter of their work. She also oversees CNN’s International Inclusion Council.
What current cultural moment reminds you why visibility for women leaders still matters? The cultural phenomenon around Nicolandria—Nic Vansteenberghe and Olandria Carthen—demonstrates why visibility of women leaders still matters. There is a multiracial, multigenerational coalition of Nicolandria supporters—led by Black women ranging from teens to the middle-aged—who have come together across social media to root for this interracial couple during Season 7 of “Love Island USA.” The support stems from finally feeling seen, and that is why we need more visible Black women leaders in our companies and across our screens.
With all the buzz around AI and automation, what’s one “human” skill you think will only grow more valuable? Empathy will only become more valuable as society becomes more automated. Empathy should drive our personal and professional relationships and the content we create. Within every story and on every platform, there is an audience we need to reach and it is impossible to understand and deliver to our audiences without being empathetic to their needs and interests.