A WOMAN from Dudley has received royal recognition for her “outstanding contributions to the film and television industry” and efforts to champion British culture.
Emaleigh Conn was invited to Buckingham Palace in November where she met King Charles to celebrate her trailblazing work.
The 25-year-old was recognised for her impactful work in improving representation on stage and screen and her dedication to empowering underrepresented communities.
Ms Conn founded the Gypsy Roma and Traveller Working Group (GRTWG) within the Actors’ Union, Equity UK and, over the past six years, has focused her efforts on ensuring accurate and fair portrayals of ethnic minorities in film, television, and theatre.
She is a graduate of the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and Birmingham City University (BCU) and, in addition to her “groundbreaking” advocacy work, supports victims of modern slavery, helping rehabilitate those trafficked into the UK.
Speaking about her meeting with the King, Ms Conn said: “Meeting King Charles and discussing my work was a ‘pinch me’ moment.
The highlight of the evening was not only sharing my journey but also connecting with other creatives who are shaping the industry.
“I’ve always felt compelled to tackle prejudice, and during my time at BCU, I discovered how theatre could be a tool for raising awareness and creating meaningful change.
“My dream is to create a space where members of the Gypsy Roma and Traveller community and anyone who feels underrepresented in the arts can flourish and feel empowered to take their rightful place in the creative industry."
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