Asian Communications Network

The Asian Communications Network (ACN) is a UK-based organization focused on increasing the representation of British Asians in journalism, public relations, and marketing. Launched on November 20, 2024, in London, ACN aims to promote diversity and innovation within these sectors. The organization addresses issues of misinformation and divisive rhetoric that affect migrant and minority communities, advocating for equality and social cohesion. Headquartered in Manchester, the organization also engages with communities across the UK, including events in London and other regions. Led by Advita Patel and Shayoni Sarkar Lynn, ACN is supported by Braidr, a global data and AI consulting company, as its founding sponsor.

Services and Specialties

The Asian Communications Network offers a range of services focused on professional development, advocacy, and community engagement. These are designed to support British Asian professionals and address systemic underrepresentation in communications fields. Key services include:

• Mentoring programs and professional support for early- and mid-career professionals
• Workshops on media literacy, disinformation mitigation, and minority storytelling
• Industry advocacy and public relations campaigns that challenge stereotypes and promote diversity
• Professional networking events and community engagement initiatives
• Leadership development and professional growth resources
• Partnerships with public relations agencies and media organizations to foster industry change
• Support for ethnic minority talent development and industry leadership

Who They Help

The Asian Communications Network primarily serves British Asian professionals working in or aspiring to enter journalism, public relations, and marketing. The organization also supports individuals from other ethnic minority backgrounds who face similar barriers in these industries. By providing mentoring, workshops, and networking opportunities, the Asian Communications Network helps these professionals build skills, gain confidence, and access career opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. Additionally, the organization works with industry partners, including public relations agencies and media companies, to advocate for more inclusive hiring practices and to challenge the underrepresentation of minority voices in public discourse.

Approach and Impact

The Asian Communications Network takes a community-centered approach to driving industry change. Rather than simply offering training, the organization actively engages in advocacy to address the root causes of underrepresentation, such as misinformation and divisive rhetoric that affect migrant and minority communities. Through workshops, the Asian Communications Network promotes media literacy and helps professionals counter disinformation, while its mentoring programs provide direct support for career advancement. The organization also fosters industry partnerships to create media opportunities and professional networking events that connect British Asians with leaders in communications. This dual focus on individual development and systemic advocacy sets the Asian Communications Network apart as a catalyst for diversity and inclusion in the UK communications sector.

Location and Credentials

The Asian Communications Network is headquartered in Manchester, England, and operates across the UK, with events and activities in London and other regions. Founded in 2024, the organization is led by co-founders Advita Patel and Shayoni Sarkar Lynn, both experienced professionals in public relations and communications. The Asian Communications Network is supported by Braidr, a global data and AI consulting company, as its founding sponsor. This backing provides the organization with resources to scale its programs and reach a wider audience. For individuals and organizations committed to improving ethnic minority representation in communications, the Asian Communications Network offers a credible and impactful platform for professional growth and industry advocacy.

The Asian Communications Network is a good fit for British Asian professionals seeking mentorship and career development in PR, journalism, or marketing. It is also suitable for public relations agencies and media companies looking to diversify their talent pipelines and engage with community-driven initiatives. Organizations interested in challenging stereotypes and promoting social cohesion through communications will find the Asian Communications Network a valuable partner.