Georgia Brown and Marcus Ryder MBE have received honorary doctorates from Bournemouth University in recognition of their services to diversity in the media industry.
Georgia is a BU graduate who has gone on to launch some of the best-known shows on television, to audiences around the world. She graduated with a degree in television production in 2005 and began her career at the BBC.
In 2017 she became Amazon's first original content hire in Europe when she took up the role as Head of Amazon Studios, Europe, and Director of European Originals. Having left Amazon in 2022, Georgia is currently lobbying to build a more sustainable and inclusive workforce as Chair of the Screen Sector's Skills Task Force.
Speaking to the BU Media and Communication graduates in the hall with her, Georgia gave them the following advice: “As you move forward, I encourage you to keep a strong sense of curiosity, passion but above all else a ruthless integrity. Operate with the upmost care, respect and responsibility for the lives you are about to impact. Give generously and compassionately to the people you will interact with on the way, and make our beloved industry better and more accessible for the people who will follow you.”
Marcus’ first foray into media production began at age 17, when Marcus joined a black film collective set up to share fresh perspectives on African and Caribbean politics and history.
Over a period of 24 years, Marcus built his career at the BBC as a producer, gaining a reputation for covering under-represented views on important topics.
In 2021 he was appointed Head of External Consultancies at the Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity. Since 2023 he has been Chief Executive Officer of The Film and TV Charity, which provides support and talent development programmes to those working in all aspects of film, TV and digital broadcast. Alongside this role, he is also Chair of RADA (The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art) where he is helping the institution play an active role in changing the cultural landscape of the UK.
Explaining his drive for improving representation, Marcus said, “You cannot have a functioning democracy or society unless you have unless you have proper representation in the media. It is important to how we view and discuss ourselves as a society.”
When asked what his advice would be to the graduates in the hall with him making their first steps in the industry, Marcus said, “The fundamental skill that is needed is passion. Of course you need the technical skills, and universities like Bournemouth are fantastic for equipping people with that, but to make that change and do it with purpose, you need the passion."
Georgia and Marcus received their Honorary Doctorates at BU’s graduation ceremony for Media and Communication students at the Bournemouth International Centre.
