Jodie Williams OLY

Founder & Editor, Listen Journal | Building a cultural platform centring women of colour through publishing, events and workshops | Creative Consultancy | 3x Olympian

United Kingdom

About

I’m the founder and editor of Listen Journal, an independent cultural platform centring the voices and creative work of women of colour through publishing, events and community programming. Listen began as a response to the absence of spaces where nuanced stories about identity and lived experience could be shared on our own terms. Today the platform spans a submission based print and digital journal, curated conversations and in person gatherings. Alongside publishing I produce events and cultural programming across London and internationally, often at the intersection of storytelling, movement and coffee culture. Through Listen I work with organisations and brands interested in thoughtful community engagement, editorial storytelling and experiential programming. Before founding Listen I spent over a decade as a professional athlete, representing Great Britain at three Olympic Games and winning a bronze medal in the women’s 4x400m relay. Sport shaped my understanding of identity and resilience and continues to inform my work today. Areas of work include: Editorial and publishing Event production and cultural programming Community engagement Creative direction Public speaking and panel moderation Brand and cultural partnerships

Experience

  • Founder & Editor at Listen Journal
    Jan 2023 - Present · 3 yrs 6 mos

    Founded an independent print and digital journal amplifying the voices of women of colour through essays, poetry and interviews. Lead the editorial vision, commissioning, design and production of the publication including a 200+ page print issue featuring contributors across the UK, Caribbean, Canada and beyond. Develop and produce community programming including coffee gatherings, writing workshops, panel conversations and outdoor events. Build partnerships with cultural venues, brands and organisations to support editorial and community initiatives. Oversee distribution, marketing, contributor relationships and overall strategic direction of the platform.

  • Creative Consultant & Cultural Producer at Freelance
    Jan 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 6 mos

    Work with organisations, cultural venues and brands on community focused programming, event production and storytelling. Projects include curated conversations, panel discussions, brand activations and workshops across culture, sport and wellbeing. Advise on creative strategy and audience engagement for organisations seeking to build meaningful community connections.

  • School Mentor at Great Athletes
    Jan 2025 - Present · 1 yr 6 mos

    Deliver school talks and workshops supporting young people through conversations around resilience, wellbeing and personal development. Lead physical activity sessions and mentoring programmes across UK schools.

  • Board Member & Communications Lead at Femlead
    Aug 2020 - Present · 5 yrs 11 mos

    Alongside my other work I support Femlead, a Ugandan organisation focused on empowering girls and young women through education, leadership development and community programmes. In my voluntary role I support organisational communications including social media strategy, grant writing and fundraising initiatives. I also sit on the European Board, contributing to governance, international partnerships and long term strategic development.

  • PUMA Group (6 yrs 11 mos)
    • Professional Athlete
      Jan 2018 - Nov 2024 · 6 yrs 11 mos

    • Professional Athlete
      Jan 2018 - Nov 2024 · 6 yrs 11 mos