For garment maker and embroiderer Bianca Springer (@thanksimadethem), her riskiest move so far hasn't been taking a bet on a funky fabric or leaving a job to pursue a passion: it’s advocating for her rightful place in an industry that has much to learn when it comes to genuine diversity. "I am at the point in my creative journey where I have learned from being taken advantage of, used, and exploited for my talents. The biggest risks I take happen when I confront the problems I see in the industry.” Speaking up for real representation has jeopardised opportunities in almost every element of her career: “I have had brands seek to partner with me, but only in February to highlight Black History Month. When I ask to be featured in a month that centres my work and not my skin, I risk exclusion.”
Working in one of many creative industries that often expect up-and-coming talent to work for free or exposure, Bianca has also
