Walpole: What does your role entail, and how long have you been doing it?
Cameron Duodu: I have been with Moriarty since the beginning of the year with a focus on accelerating our growth and creating new strategic partnerships with brands. It’s a really exciting role and I love working with the team to translate our projects to a wider audience, telling the story of elevated guest experiences.
What’s your career background and what makes you passionate about what you do?
My background has always been about people. I fell in love with the hospitality industry at a young age and I have been working with a number of luxury brands over the last decade producing events from award shows to product launches and client dinners. My focus is to make sure every guest has an amazing time and leaves feeling well looked after and considered. During the pandemic I was given the opportunity to connect with so many businesses virtually (something I initially found quite daunting) to try and understand the challenging issues they were facing in a new world and that element of human connection was really rewarding. I suppose my love of creating something out of nothing has played a large part in places I have worked.
How has your sexuality and/or gender identity been a source of strength on your journey into your sector?
It’s funny, compared to so many other sectors, my experience in the hospitality industry has been nothing but inclusive and supportive - the fact my identity has never been a source of conversation or fodder is, in itself, a strength. We are so fortunate to work with a real mix of people working together for a common goal (usually with some added time pressure!), so the focus has always been what can you do rather than how do you identify. I work with a remarkably welcoming group of women, too, and realise this is real privilege as there are so many instances where people aren’t treated with the same level of respect which needs to change.
Do you think attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community have shifted in your time in the industry?
Short answer; yes. As a society, I feel we are much more aware of what is appropriate to ask, assume or consider about a person’s orientation and circumstances. Can more be done? Absolutely. But we must acknowledge the barriers that our forbearers have broken.
What’s a significant obstacle for members of the LGBTQ+ community in the workplace that you feel isn’t talked about enough - and why is it important to highlight?
I think we need to remember that, societally, the world hasn’t evolved at the same rate as we have in Britain and, as such, the freedom to travel openly is still a little tricky. This will become easier over time, but we are increasingly seeing legislation restricting the liberties of LGBTQ+ nationals globally and that needs to be addressed.
Is there a person in your industry or sector from the LGBTQ+ community who inspires you or has helped you on your journey?
I have been so fortunate to have been mentored by some incredible individuals over the years and that is why it’s so important to inspire the next generation and to show them what is possible.
What career advice do you have for younger members of the LGBTQ+ community who are entering your industry?
Be authentically you and let your work speak for itself.
What does Pride in the workplace mean to you?
We are humans like everyone else and removing all labels allows for true acceptance.
