MEET THE TEAM

Unity at NEXT is a collaboration of individuals from the ethnic minority community and their allies across all divisions of NEXT.

These are passionate and supportive diversity champions who have given up their time to create the Unity employee led community. You can learn more about them below.

Background: Zimbabwean - born and bred 

Makadini (Shona greeting) I'm James and I've been with the business for nearly 15 years. I came over from Zimbabwe after high school to study and even given the lack of sunshine, I love the UK. Being married with 2 young daughters, my life revolves around them. I also enjoy running even though my quest for sub 40min 10k is proving rather elusive and aged me.

I'm so looking forward to interacting with people across the business and so excited about the legacy a group like this is capable of in terms of creating something that makes a lasting impact. 

Background: Black British, Jamaican descent

Hi I'm Viv. I've been with Next for 6 years.  I was born in Hertfordshire but I've lived in Derbyshire for many, many years. I love shopping and food (any and all food)

I'm really excited to be part of this group.  I've experienced many different levels of racism, exclusion, discrimination and intolerance purely because of the colour of my skin. I'm passionate about celebrating diversity, promoting equality and cultural awareness. 

Background: Mixed Heritage, African & Indian Decent. 

Hey, I’m Latifah, I’ve been working for Next since 2006! I’m a Leicester girl, born & kind of bred. Having family all over the country, I’ve spent a lot of time (& for brief stints lived) in cities such as Coventry, Northampton & London. 


I try to catch as many flights abroad as I can - I love to travel. But when I’m not on a flight, I do Muay Thai, Hotpod Yoga & I try (emphasis on ‘try’) to regularly go to the gym. The motive behind it… food! I love to bake and try different cuisines, so I have to balance the scales somehow!


I’m delighted to be a part of Unity at Next. I look forward to continuing to grow the network, celebrate our diversity & contribute to the safe space we have to feel valued & included. 

Background: Bolton born and bred married to AJ Black british and mum to Bodie age 17.


Hi, I'm Victoria, Retail Store manager. I've worked for Next for 32 years in many stores in the north west.


I have joined Unity because of my background and mixed marriage. As a mum I started to think about what my son's experiences will be joining the working world, will his mixed heritage have an impact? I want to help promote equality, respect and celebrate diversity in Next Retail. I want all our retail team from every background  to have a great experience working at Next. 

Background: Indian.


Hi, I'm Kam, I started my Next career in 2006.


I'm a Mum of 2 teenage boys - who keep me very busy outside of work and we all love to be in the great outdoors! Be it traipsing through the country, BBQ on a beach, or playing games in the garden!


My other love is food! I love cooking, and I love eating. Be it Indian, Thai or Italian....I love it all!


Being part of unity means developing a platform where everyone feels valued and everyone has a voice within the business.