Though she was born, raised, and still lives in South London, Bridget Banton has always been interested in the world at large. After majoring in anthropology and African studies in college—with an emphasis on film—Banton spent 15 years in British television, working as a commissioning editor at both Channel 4 and the BBC. From documentaries to educational shows, her work—often geared toward children, teens, and young adults—was centered around “trying to find your place in the world” and “trying to reframe the way people think about you.” These themes, “things I’ve been passionate about on a personal level,” she says, still shine through in her work.
Do what you love, and do what you’re passionate about, because it will be fine in the end. I’ve been on a long journey, and I’ve come back absolutely where I started. And I’m so happy about it.
This year, Banton is juggling two exciting projects. Based out of WeWork Soho – Sheraton House, the 43-year-old “proper Londoner” is senior director at Girl Effect Studios. This is a new creative branch of Girl Effect, a nonprofit founded by Nike that is dedicated to “reframing the way people see and perceive what girls can and can’t do.” Banton, a mother of two sons, is also busy running a production company called Ayo Banton with her husband, a seasoned photographer. “I’m so excited by the fact that I can use my professional experience, my expertise, my passion, and some of my skills to do something positive and give something back to the world.”
Photos: Lauren Kallen