Arit Eminue. Photo credit: Andy Commons

The Fairy Job Mother, Arit Eminue, appointed MBE

Congratulations to DiVA founder, Arit Eminue, dubbed the Fairy Job Mother, for being appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the Kings New Year Honours 2023 for services to Further Education in the Creative Industries.

Arit founded DiVA over a decade ago from a desk under her stairs with just six apprentices and a vision “to create a work placement mediation service” that offered subsided internships in the top film businesses.

Under her leadership, DiVA evolved into one of the most recognised brands in the creative industries, supporting future talent. The organisation was a bridge for almost 2000 individuals to kickstart their careers in some of the world’s recognised entertainment brands, including Universal Music, Sony Music, Fremantle Media, BMG, All3 Media, and the BBC. In its final year, the company distributed £2.6m in grant funding as part of the Kickstart Scheme, supporting 350+ young people into employment in companies such as the National Magazine Company, ViacomCBS, CNN, October Films, DLT Entertainment, WarnerBros and many more.

Arit’s position as a prominent champion of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Creative Industries led to partnerships with UK Music and the BPI to deliver the UK Music Apprenticeship Scheme and the BRITs Apprenticeship Scheme to provide access to the Music industry for talent from diverse communities. In partnership with the BPI, Association of Independent Music (AIM), and IMPALA, she has designed and delivered a package of DE&I training to music industry leads in the UK and across Europe.

Her passion for helping people take ownership of their careers is evident in her work as a LinkedIn Learning Instructor, her contribution to magazines such as Stylist and Red Magazine, and her social media presence on YouTube and Instagram. As a respected speaker, she has contributed to discussions on Times Radio, BBC Radio 5 Live, LBC and Maritime Radio, and ITV News.

Arit Eminue MBE said: I’m incredibly grateful to receive this honour. It’s humbling to have your work recognised in this way and at this level, and it is the icing on the cake of an incredible 14 years in business. Thank you to my team, past and present, whose work made a substantial and tangible impact on the lives of those who came through our doors. Thank you to each client who agreed to work with us and, of course, to the individuals who chose to start their careers with DiVA; their success is our success.

Following the merge of the apprenticeship business, and her subsequent decision to step down, Arit has continued to work her magic alongside HR, Learning & Development leads and industry membership organisations through bespoke consultancy support designed to help them develop their workforce and create inclusive environments.

Arit is the recipient of the Entrepreneur of the Year Award (Precious Awards) and Business Person of the Year (Newham Chamber of Commerce). She was recognised as a Leader in Media and Arts by the Black British Business Awards.

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