10 Minutes with Stewart Luunga

Can you give our readers a bit of background about yourself and when you knew you wanted to work in the sports industry?

I’m Stewart Luunga, a content creator, writer, journalist, and social media manager. I recently graduated from Loughborough University with a First Class Degree in Media and Communications. Until recently, I was a member of a media organisation called the Black Collective of Media in Sport (BCOMS). My passion for sports has been an integral part of my life since a young age; having played football as a child, I aspired to become a professional football player.

However, as I grew older, I realised that becoming a professional athlete wasn’t in the cards for me. Nevertheless, my love for sports remained strong. I yearned for a career that would keep me connected to this dynamic industry. Additionally, my father’s avid interest in football and other sports influenced me greatly, as I was exposed to various sports. Ultimately, these experiences shaped my decision to pursue a career in the sports industry, where I can channel my passion and skills as a media professional to contribute meaningfully to the industry.

You recently completed an internship with BBC Sport at the Wimbledon Championships. Can you tell us more about what that involved?

Yeah! I worked as a Production Runner with BBC Sport, where I had the opportunity to assist in various aspects of production, contributing to the smooth running of the behind-the-scenes broadcasting work for the event. I was even able to witness some of the games, and even though I wasn’t a massive fan of the sport, being part of the atmosphere and emotions was genuinely incredible. The experience left a lasting impact on me, and I would love to do it again. One of the primary skills I developed during the internship was teamwork, as I collaborated with different teams, including the commentary team, to accomplish various tasks. This aspect of the internship was particularly valuable for my personal development.

What did you enjoy most during your internship?

I enjoyed working closely with all the teams behind the scenes and witnessing firsthand the extensive effort that goes into production and broadcasting. Being part of such a dynamic environment allowed me to gain valuable media experience and insight into the intricacies of sports event coverage. Collaborating with different teams gave me a holistic understanding of the entire process and enhanced my skills in various areas. Moreover, the internship proved to be an excellent platform for networking and connecting with professionals in the sports and media industry, which further enriched my overall experience.

How did you learn about this opportunity to work for BBC Sport at Wimbledon? If you had an application process, what did it involve?

The opportunity to work at Wimbledon came through an offer made by BBC Sport to BCOMS members. There were four available slots, and interested candidates, including myself, had to apply through BCOMS. The application process involved a task where we responded to a tennis-related question using various formats, such as an audio recording, a written document, or a video. Given my background in content creation and my comfort with video production, I opted for the video format, as I believed it would be more engaging. After submitting my application, I received positive feedback and was fortunate to secure the internship.

One of the biggest challenges for young people who want to work in sports is the lack of knowledge about available opportunities. How can others get involved in a similar opportunity?

I feel the best way to get involved in such is to establish a platform where you can share your interests and accomplishments. By showcasing your work and passions, you open doors for others to connect you with relevant opportunities in the field. Networking also plays a vital role; actively engaging with others, inquiring about their pursuits, and staying in touch with people are equally important. Professional networking platforms like LinkedIn can prove immensely valuable in maintaining connections. Furthermore, sharing one’s journey and staying proactive in reaching out to others can lead to unexpected opportunities, just as I discovered BCOMS through a friend and now tutor, Hannah Thompson, who noticed my media work.

Have you faced any challenges when looking for opportunities in the industry? How were you able to overcome them?

Yes, I did face some challenges, and I am still facing some challenges when seeking opportunities in the sports industry. I mean, challenges are inevitable. One of the main obstacles is the highly competitive nature of the field, with numerous aspiring professionals vying for limited positions. To overcome this, I am focusing on enhancing my skills and knowledge through continuous learning and professional development. I am actively seeking internships and networking opportunities to build connections within the industry.

Additionally, I am showcasing my work and accomplishments on various platforms, such as LinkedIn and Instagram, to increase my visibility and demonstrate my passion for sports media. It might sound cliché, but persistence is key as I continue to apply to multiple opportunities and remain resilient in the face of rejections. But I firmly believe there is the right opportunity for everyone, so I keep trying and hoping for the best.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a young person who has a similar background to you and feels the industry is not for them?

To any young person who looks like me and feels uncertain about pursuing a career in the sports industry due to the challenges faced by minorities, I would say this: It is true that the path may be difficult, and the odds may seem stacked against you, but always remember that you deserve every opportunity that comes your way. Your hard work and dedication are just as valid as anyone else’s, regardless of your background. Never doubt your worth or feel you are only there to fulfil diversity quotas. You have earned your place through your merit and talents. Embrace each opportunity with confidence and pride, knowing you belong in the industry. Own your chance to make a difference, and let your skills and passion speak for themselves. The road may be challenging, but never forget that you deserve to be there, and you have the potential to make a significant impact.

If you were to choose one person to shine a light on who is working in the industry or creating opportunities for young people from diverse backgrounds to access the industry, who would it be and why?

It would be Leon Mann, co-founder of BCOMS. However, it is essential to acknowledge the significant contributions of Tom Gayle, Andrew Ducile and the entire BCOMS team.

BCOMS is an organisation that advocates for better representation of our diverse society in the media, recognising the underrepresentation of individuals from Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic, LGBTQ+, and other underrepresented communities in sports media. Their efforts and initiatives are dedicated to creating pathways for young people facing barriers to entry into the sports industry. Through their work, BCOMS embodies a beacon of hope for any young person seeking help and support to thrive in the sports industry, offering guidance, mentorship, and opportunities to pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse representation in sports media. So, I feel BCOMS is the perfect place for every young person from an underrepresented background.  

Want to connect with Stewart? Head over to our Networks page to find out more!