Contributors
Jo Coleman, Partner in the Charities team at Womble Bond Dickinson (WBD), has worked with Black Lives in Music, an organisation that seeks to address the inequality of opportunity in the UK for Black, Asian and Ethnically Diverse people aspiring to be artists or professionals in the Jazz and Classical music industry.
Earlier this month, Black Lives in Music was featured in Fast Company’s 2023 list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies, highlighting the businesses at the forefront of their respective industries.
Jo advised Black Lives in Music on a pro-bono basis, and helped register the organisation as a charity. Jo commented:
"Equality of opportunity is something I am really passionate about and so when Black Lives in Music approached me for support and advice, I immediately wanted to help. The work the organisation undertakes to advocate for more diverse representation in the music industry and to drive change for equal opportunities, is awe-inspiring and it has been an absolute pleasure to work with such a passionate and forward-thinking team."
Charisse Beaumont, Chief Executive at Black Lives in Music, adds:
"We always felt reassured by Jo Coleman and the team that our application to the charity commission was in expert hands. The knowledge and advice we received was impeccable. The application was a lengthy process due to the pandemic but we felt an unwavering commitment from the team that their focus was to see this through to the end. Jo attended meetings and was a great advisor to us. Ultimately, we received charity status and as an organisation are now able to make a greater impact across the music sector. Thank you Jo for your professional and friendly advice. Thank you Womble Bond Dickinson for understanding our mission from the very beginning."
WBD is heavily involved in a responsible business programme across the UK and beyond, supporting charities, community projects and local initiatives. The firm is committed to creating better places to live, work and do business, with a focus on delivering social value. Read the firm's latest Responsible Business report here.
Image (top): Bradley Wilson - Rachel Cole
Charisse Beaumont, Chief Executive at Black Lives in Music
