Meet The Black Sherpa

Welcome to the Black Sherpa Podcast, where we believe that social mobility should not be limited by one's background or community.

I'm your host, Yam, and as a father of two, I am committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive society for my children and for future generations.

Unfortunately, talented individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds or marginalized communities often face additional challenges in their personal growth and career progression. This is due to the narratives and behaviors that exist within society, which can make it even harder for them to succeed.

That's why I created the Black Sherpa podcast - to help right these wrongs and supercharge personal development. Each episode features frank conversations with guests who share their experiences, insights, and strategies for success. Through these conversations, we aim to empower social mobility, one story at a time.

As someone who has spent 15 years as a commercial leader at one of the world's leading pharmaceutical organizations, I know firsthand the importance of investing time and effort in a way that benefits both oneself and the employer. Unfortunately, many talented individuals miss out on these opportunities due to a lack of guidance and support.

Join me on the Black Sherpa podcast as we explore the stories of individuals who have overcome adversity and achieved success. Let's work together to create a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive society, where everyone has the foresight and confidence to maximize their potential.

MY BACK STORY

Growing up in Zambia, my parents worked hard to provide a better life for my siblings and me. Moving to the UK at a young age, I was grateful for the opportunities my parents' sacrifices had provided me. However, it wasn't until I matured that I truly understood the unique mix of skills that my upbringing had instilled in me. Resilience, adaptability, ingenuity, and a sense of humor were just a few of the traits that I had gained.

At the start of my career, I struggled to thrive in a corporate environment. I didn't have the necessary information to understand how to advance and failed to ask the right questions. My worldview was too narrow to think big enough to accelerate my growth and impact. As a black man in the UK, I faced many of the cliché narratives and felt the need to cover my insecurities and seek validation in the wrong ways and places.

Today, I am more aware of my true position in the world. While life may not be fair, there are ways to level the playing field, especially when it comes to career advancement. I have learned that good processes and relationships matter, and great results come when you pay attention to both. I am now better equipped to ask for help in achieving my goals and to provide support for others in similar situations.

Overall, my past experiences have shaped my perspective on social mobility. I am grateful for the blessings that my parents' sacrifices provided me, but I also recognize the challenges that come with being a black man in the UK. Through it all, I have learned that there are ways to overcome obstacles and achieve success by embracing my unique mix of skills and seeking support when needed

TIME FOR THE BLACK SHERPA…

The Black Sherpa podcasts name is inspired by the Sherpas of Nepal. Just like the Sherpas serve as humble guides, providing invaluable expertise to visitors attempting the most challenging of journeys, the Black Sherpa is committed to serving as a guide for achieving social mobility, an equally challenging journey.

Our podcast helps you climb your own mountain by sharing practical insights from our guests' experiences. As the Black Sherpa, I am your humble guide, helping you tap into and learn from both the good and bad times in our guests' careers, the experiences that have served them well in the long run.

Join us on this epic journey and learn how to safely and quickly climb your own mountain, achieving equally epic feats. It's time for the Black Sherpa podcast.    

“Just think of my guests advice like cheat codes for the corporate game of snakes and ladders”

Connect with Yam for more info.