3 Questions for 2021 for Winners

3 Questions for 2021 for Winners

– 

Congratulations to Shannon Inise Andrews and Angela Carone, our Rising Star Winners, and Tendai Mashingaidze, our Mentor Award Winner.

Name: Shannon Inise Andrews

Location: Atlanta, GA

Title: Manager, Business Information Systems, Headquarters

Company: Comcast Cable

What does getting this award mean to you?

I was invited to attend the Red Letter Awards in 2017 and told myself, “That’s going to be me one day.” All of this still feels surreal to me, and I’m so humbled to be selected for this prestigious honor. A couple of years ago, one of my mentors shared that they didn’t feel I was ready for the Rising Star for Emerging Leaders award. That was challenging to hear, and it gave me the time and space I needed to work on myself. Receiving this award means that I have grown personally and professionally.

As women, we often find it difficult to pat ourselves on the back, but I’m going to ask you to do just that. What do you think sets you apart from other nominees? 

I never let my job title or responsibilities limit what I could offer to the industry. I use data storytelling to offer insights and recommendations to senior leaders. I mentor other women and students who are trying to find their way along their career journey. In addition, I walk into a room and find someone I don’t know to build up and expand my network. I’m constantly taking advantage of training for leadership development and stay up to date on the latest trends so I can provide valuable insight to decision-makers. In mid-2020, I stepped up to be a facilitator in the Central Division’s Conversation Circles, a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiative bringing diverse members together to share, listen and learn from each other’s experiences in today’s divided society. I’ve embraced Comcast’s 3 pillars of committing to lifelong learning, demonstrating compassion and acting with intention.

In the words of Lin-Manuel Miranda in Hamilton; “I’m just non-stop.” and “I’m not throwing away my shot!”

This year’s theme is ‘Be a Catalyst.’ Why do you think setting the wheels of change in motion is more important than ever in 2021? 

We must set the wheels of change in motion to create sustainability. We must constantly invest in future generations by taking them on the journey with us as they develop as leaders. Change in life will always occur and being prepared for change is something that determines if a business will make it through difficult times. We need to have a plan for how we can pick things up after we move on. Leaders need to have a “right hand” and a “left hand”. The “right hand” is the person that they develop to take their place. The “left hand” is the person the leader is coaching the “right hand” on developing to take the “right hand’s” place. When everyone is developing their successor, effective leadership is sustainable; everyone is not relying on one person for everything, and the leader is not burnt out feeling like everything rests on their shoulders.

Name: Angela Carone

Location: Atlanta, GA

Title: Director of Podcasts

Company: Turner Classic Movies, WarnerMedia

What does getting this award mean to you?

It’s so gratifying to receive an award that confirms I’m on the right path. As a creative, I’ve often resisted leadership roles thinking it would take me out of hands-on creative work. I’ve come to see how strong leadership actually is creative, from guiding others, to developing strategy, to solving an endless array of problems. This award inspires me to forge ahead and work to become an effective, compassionate leader who inspires growth and change both for my team and within my network and company. 

As women, we often find it difficult to pat ourselves on the back, but I’m going to ask you to do just that. What do you think sets you apart from other nominees? 

I’m not sure, but I do know I am willing to take risks. None of us knew whether a TCM podcast would work. Our core audience members are not early adopters. We worried some wouldn’t even know what a podcast was – and we were right. But we saw a space we could grow into, where we could develop new audiences while working to bring along our long-standing fans. It worked! I have years of expertise in audio journalism, so I was able to lean on that expertise to help make something special for classic movie fans. 

This year’s theme is ‘Be a Catalyst.’ Why do you think setting the wheels of change in motion is more important than ever in 2021?

It’s important because it’s not just our industry that is rapidly changing. We’re living through so much historical, social and political change. Making an impact is going to require all of us to observe and listen more, take more risks, and push for change in areas that may be uncomfortable. 

 

Name: Tendai Mashingaidze

Location: Atlanta, GA

Title: Vice President, Compliance, Investor relations, and Subsidiary Reporting

Company: UP Entertainment, a media group comprised of several brands such as the cable networks UPtv and AspireTv, and the streaming service, UP Faith and Family

What does getting this award mean to you?

It is incredibly humbling to have my contributions recognized by my industry peers. I have attended the WICT Southeast Red Letter Awards almost every year since I became a member. I looked forward to celebrating and being inspired by the highly accomplished women. To be recognized for the Mentor award is especially meaningful to me because it is something I love to do; it brings me pure joy to give back and empower others. I personally benefited from many generous mentors and unexpected cheerleaders at various stages in my career. It is an honor to be in the company of such fantastic award recipients this year.

As women, we often find it difficult to pat ourselves on the back, but I’m going to ask you to do just that. What do you think sets you apart from other nominees?

This is an interesting question because I can easily name many more women who have accomplished much in my own company, let alone the industry. These women inspire and challenge me to stand up and be counted. However, what anchors me the most and maybe sets me apart is the strength of the women, including my mother in rural Zimbabwe, where I grew up. Seeing their plight in a disempowering culture, I resolved to be different. Everything I did, including every school report that I brought home, had more significant consequences, including the very idea that there was value in educating a girl child. It took hard work for me to earn that right, and every day still feels like a fight to prove myself.  

As a result, my approach to work and life has always been: 

Take advantage of every opportunity to grow. I consider myself a lifetime learner, and I am committed to continuous personal and professional improvement. I think I can always do better, differently, more efficiently, so I push myself constantly.

Excellence always! I may not achieve it all the time, but I sure strive for it because anything less is not me.

Recognize and celebrate in others. I never pass up an opportunity to let someone know when they have done well. A genuine celebration of their strengths builds them up, so why not?

This year’s theme is ‘Be a Catalyst.’ Why do you think setting the wheels of change in motion is more important than ever in 2021?

If there is one thing I have learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is the urgency of now. We all have the capacity to effect change, whether it be in the workplace, at home, or in our community. If it matters to you, it most likely matters to others, so don’t wait.

Many years ago, my husband and I launched the Tapson Education Foundation, an educational, not-for-profit organization in memory of my late brother, whose love for education inspired me. As I look back at the countless students whose lives were transformed, I know for sure that if I had waited to get started until everything was in place, we would have missed some competent students that needed the help. We had many good reasons to wait; it was too early in my career to start something new on the side, kids were too young, Zimbabwe was a world away from where I live now (it would be a logistical nightmare!), and I certainly could not afford it. However, all of these reasons viewed in the context of the bigger picture certainly feel shallow now, but they were real to me. I am glad we went for it, and I hope we all get the courage to be a catalyst in our own spheres of influence.

Congratulations to Kia Painter and Heather Symmes, our Horizon Award for Woman to Watch Winners, and Katie Horne, our Catalyst Award, Women in Technology Winner.

Name:  Kia Painter-Holland

Location: Atlanta, GA 

Title: SVP, HR Business Partnerships

Company:  Cox Communications  

What does getting this award mean to you? 

Receiving the Horizon Woman to Watch award is a product of living a personal commitment to help others succeed, to support the growth of my company, and to create pathways for others to journey and thrive.  I am over the moon that WICT Southeast and Cox are recognizing me.  I am truly honored.  To me, this means that I am making a difference and contributing in a way that I am poised to continue to add value for years to come.  

As women, we often find it difficult to pat ourselves on the back, but I’m going to ask you to do just that. What do you think sets you apart from other nominees?

I have a long, consistent track record of delivering results and performing my job to the best of my abilities while also keeping my eye out for other leaders to bring along on the journey to develop and grow.   I started with my company as a part time HR assistant fresh out of college and haven’t looked back.  I am personally compelled to mentor other future leaders looking to ignite and grow their careers.  It is my duty. 

This year’s theme is ‘Be a Catalyst.’ Why do you think setting the wheels of change in motion is more important than ever in 2021?  

The time is ripe with opportunity to make a positive impact in our industry and in our worlds.  There is so much we’ve done to push the limits of who we are as women the last 18 months.  Helping our companies deliver during a pandemic, taking care of our employees as they navigate social issues challenging their communities, while also trying to keep their families safe and healthy-these are unprecedented times.   And as leaders, we can continue to step up and be the catalysts in our businesses and communities.  We are programmers and distributors delivering innovative content and services into people’s homes and businesses- in a way that impacts their everyday livelihoods.   We are each uniquely positioned to catalyze, spark, and ignite positive change to improve and enhance those lives of both our current and future customers.  Be a Catalyst, let’s get it done.

Name: Katie Horne

Location: Atlanta, GA

Title:  Executive Director | Cyber M&A, Product Security, CB Sales Information Security and Third Party Risk

Company: Cox Communications

What does getting this award mean to you? 

This award means the world to me. It means that people take notice and appreciate the work that means so much to me.

As women, we often find it difficult to pat ourselves on the back, but I’m going to ask you to do just that. What do you think sets you apart from other nominees? 

I am certain that the other nominees are fantastic so I will only speak for myself.   I take pride in the fact that I never back down from a challenge, whether it’s taking new and different responsibilities in my current job or moving careers to try something new!  Be a catalyst to change, right? 😊

This year’s theme is ‘Be a Catalyst.’ Why do you think setting the wheels of change in motion is more important than ever in 2021?

 The past 18 months have shown us that embracing change is the only way to thrive.  We have had to learn how to work differently, to live our personal lives differently, basically do everything differently.  Change is difficult but being able to drive change and lead through that change makes all the difference in the world.  

Name: Heather Symmes

Location: Atlanta, GA

Title: Vice President, Content Distribution & Marketing

Company: UP Entertainment, LLC

What does getting this award mean to you?  

First, I am incredibly honored to receive this amazing award. Thank you to all who contribute to the success and growth of the WICT overall, to WICT SE and the esteemed Red Letter Awards! I have attended and supported the RLA’s for many years, and the incredible caliber of winners and nominees is mind blowing. I’m truly speechless to be selected among this esteemed group of leaders whom I admire, and whose characters, successes and accomplishments, are so inspiring to me. I am deeply grateful and thrilled to be the recipient of the Horizon Award for Women to Watch. 

As women, we often find it difficult to pat ourselves on the back, but I’m going to ask you to do just that. What do you think sets you apart from other nominees?

I am seriously humbled to be selected among stellar and highly accomplished fellow nominees. I believe the nature of my personality, how I operate as a leader, and my role within our organization, helps set me apart. Although I have been in the industry since 1996, my career path has been an interesting journey! I enjoy embracing change and navigate this swiftly evolving industry by continually learning about media, technologies, competition and new ways to consume content. I am also an artist, so I view the world through a colorful and creative lens, but with laser focus on business goals and priorities. I am a champion for the development and flawless execution of remarkable, cost-effective marketing campaigns that distinguish UP Entertainment among our competitors, regardless of our smaller size. I’ve continued to build and foster strong business relationships over time.  I also strive relentlessly for excellence, which has paid off significantly with the major goals I have met and exceeded throughout my career.  I like to explore new platforms and opportunities for UP Entertainment’s unique brands (UPtv, AspireTV, UP Faith & Family and Cine Romántico), diving into where our content can live, be elevated and most of all, be celebrated. I have a deep knowledge of our distributor platforms and create value by consulting with our partners on mutually beneficial opportunities where our programming can be enjoyed by their customers/our audiences and leveraged for optimum awareness and subscriber growth. As a result, distributors and other stakeholders turn to me, and often think of UP Entertainment first when considering partnerships or collaborative campaign ideas. I strive to set a positive example of diversity in the workplace, among my colleagues and friends, our brands, and within the industry. I celebrate my family: my wife and 12-year-old daughter, and it has been an incredible journey to be in a place where I can bring my authentic self to the workplace and community. I feel that over time and with each relationship, I have organically created a lasting and positive impact on all who know me professionally and personally. I am incredibly proud to work within this dynamic industry, and I find it so much fun, too.

This year’s theme is ‘Be a Catalyst.’ Why do you think setting the wheels of change in motion is more important than ever in 2021?

For better or worse, our entire world has changed drastically and unexpectedly, and will continue to change by the moment. Everything that has gotten us to and through this year, won’t keep us here, nor will it get us to the next place we aspire to be within the industry, our communities, careers and our own personal lives. Media and technology are an increasingly powerful force in our day-to-day life and will be further entwined throughout our experiences and interactions. Technology has become personal. Speed is the norm, and we as leaders can guide the way by evolving quickly for sustained performance. We can explore and seek knowledge, be uncomfortable in our growth and surround ourselves with unique minds and perspectives that challenge us to new ways of being. However, we must be willing to listen, lead with our heads and our hearts, and motivate others thoughtfully through challenging times and situations. To me, this is the really fun part about life well lived and meaningful work. I hope to continuously discover opportunities to serve others along the way by being open to the creativity in diversity, in equity and fully inclusive of the various and wonderful talent inside and outside this dynamic industry, and within this incredible WICT organization.  Everything is new all the time, and just like anything else, our careers are a journey, not a destination. Knowledge and curiosity are the powerful foundation of our future success as women and as leaders during these tumultuous and exciting times. I know through experience that it only takes one decision, one person, one moment, one action or one interaction to create powerful changes that we want to see happen, even while change is happening to each of us. It requires us all working together and supporting each other that will determine amazing outcomes along the way.

Congratulations to Tina Shah our Inspiration Award, Woman of the Year Winner.

Name: Tina Shah

Location: Atlanta, GA

Title: Executive Vice President and General Manager

Company: Turner Sports

What does getting this award mean to you?

 It’s a tremendous honor, especially given the number of amazingly talented women who are professionals I deeply admire throughout our industry. Many of those women are pioneers who have paved the way and helped to create opportunities for me and so many others. I am very grateful to them and for being the recipient of this award.

As women, we often find it difficult to pat ourselves on the back, but I’m going to ask you to do just that. What do you think sets you apart from other nominees?  

I think what differentiates me, at least to a degree, is that I work in sports media. It’s a bit more uncommon to see women, especially in leadership positions, in our industry. Throughout my career, I’ve focused so much on displaying a strong work ethic and building relationships. And I genuinely believe that hard work will take you certain places, but you also need someone who notices and advocates on your behalf. I’m very fortunate to have received that level of support from many leaders throughout our organization.

This year’s theme is ‘Be a Catalyst.’ Why do you think setting the wheels of change in motion is more important than ever in 2021?

 I believe the most important thing we all can do is continue being catalysts for change. We saw that this past year, with so many societal inequities being highlighted. Within our industry, we continue to see greater representation needed in all forms. We have a responsibility to our colleagues as well as the communities we all serve to keep taking action. While there is always more to be done, I feel strongly that we must consistently seek opportunities to drive meaningful change and leverage the appropriate resources to help us become even more of a catalyst.

 

Share