The Why: In her newly created role, Greenfield in 2021 launched the Nat Geo Scholarship Program for students from HBCUs, which expanded to include six students this year. In 2022, she worked closely with the Nutopia Partnerships, an accelerator for senior-level talent from diverse backgrounds. She also worked closely on the Field Ready Program, which promotes more DEI in television production.
She Says… “People often confuse equity with equality. Rather, they are two different things. Equality means providing the same to all, whereas equity means recognizing that all people do not start from the same place of access, exposure or opportunity.”
First job in the industry: Production assistant at Fox’s “America’s Most Wanted” with John Walsh.
What is an overlooked aspect of DEI? Equity, which is the equalizer in DEI. It is often overlooked because people misunderstand its definition. People often confuse equity with equality. Rather, they are two different things. Equality means providing the same to all, whereas equity means recognizing that all people do not start from the same place of access, exposure or opportunity. Therefore, we must adjust the imbalances.
What movie or show is a must-watch for celebrating diversity, and why? I will shamelessly reply with “Never Say Never With Jeff Jenkins” airing on Disney+ and Hulu. Jeff and his show represent all three of our guiding principles: representation, authenticity and intentionality. Jeff is what some consider to be the unconventional Nat Geo travel adventurist in that he is a plus-size, Black man who embraces travel, life, cultures and living outside of his comfort zone. He teaches us about courage and travel accessibility as he pursues wild adventures.
Place I would love to retire to: I dream of retiring with a home alongside North Point in Grand Cayman enjoying the sound of crashing waves 24 hours a day.
How has advocating for DEI benefited your company or department? Advocating for and becoming a disciplined steward of DEI has allowed Nat Geo to offer the most diverse slate of television content in our history. Leaning into cultural competency and workplace culture allows us to better understand our “why” and knowing our “why” is empowering and often leads to a greater level of success.
