Meet our Member! Amarachi Clarke
In conversation with one of our incredible members and trustee Amarachi Clarke, the founder of Lucocoa a Bean-to-Bar chocolate brand based in London. Not only is she a chocolate connoisseur but a dedicated global feminist. She tells us about her relationship to The Circle and her love for Ellen Ripley from Aliens!
Tell us a bit about your background Ama!
Born and raised in the East End of London, I got a bug for campaigning as a child watching my parents and other residents on our council estate campaign against the expansion of Canary Wharf into our estate in the early 90’s. I have a love for problem solving and thought I would be a programmer but gave up computers in my mid 20’s. I have been involved in student politics and worked for large NGOs in the past. Right now I’m using business to show that positive change can happen by creating an ethical chocolate making business.
And what brought you to The Circle?
The world feels like it’s in a state of flux at the moment, not in a positive way, women and girls are usually the first to be negatively impacted by this. The Circle is that positive force for change and I’m so proud to have joined its Board of Trustees last year.
What does being a Global Feminist mean to you?
Being a Global Feminist to me means understanding fundamental women’s rights and fighting to make sure those rights are rolled out globally creating a global sisterhood along the way.
Who is your favourite fictional female protagonist?
It has to be Ellen Ripley in Alien. I remember after watching those films then getting the Super Nintendo game which I couldn’t get enough of!
How do you unwind and rest?
Ahhh, I’m a bit of a mixed bag, for my sins I have a racing mind so I tend to do DIY. Since my parents bought me a jigsaw when I was 14 after convincing them that I could refurbish the bathroom I’ve always been one to try a new project. Or I unwind in front of the TV watching Liverpool FC or The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Beverley Hill, New York, Potomac, Miami!
Who is an inspirational woman in your life?
Probably my mum. Having an understanding of how the world will view me vs how I view myself was a really important education being a Black girl when I was young. Also showing us that anything is possible regardless of your gender really expanded my horizon on what I thought was possible.