What Leon’s Journey Can Teach You About Finding Your Voice at Work

When did you join JLR?

So, since joining JLR back in 2012. I have had many roles. From Rolling Roads Test Operator to current in the social team delivering content for our social media channels.

What is the culture like?

The culture at JLR is one that genuinely supports both personal and professional growth. There is a clear focus on developing people, with opportunities and encouragement to continuously learn, evolve, and progress. At the same time, individuals are empowered to bring their whole selves to work, expressing ideas creatively and contributing in ways that feel authentic to them. It’s a culture that values ownership and pride, where people are encouraged to see themselves as creators and to take real accountability for the impact of their work.

How do you balance work and home life?
I think the key to work life balance is being really intentional with your time. Plan your time well, be purposeful with the time you are away from work as much as you are at work. It helps I have a super supportive wife who I can share the responsibilities of school pick-ups and drop offs, so that's a massive help.

What I do outside of work?

Is a great question as people always ask, "what is it called" The term of me delivering written scripts in a rhythmic way is known as Spoken Word. Which I actually stumbled into from me being an Emcee. I had an opportunity along with some friends to be the first to pioneer something called "Grime Theatre" which was bringing this urban style of music into a theatrical setting. It was a huge success, and we ended up touring from it. But that led into me being able to take the words away from the music and giving myself time to articulate this and project to an audience, becoming spoken word. I have been fortunate enough to use my talents to write some amazing scripts that have seen great success on Tv adverts.

What is something you are proud of?

I take pride in being a pioneer of grime theatre, championing a bold fusion of urban music and theatrical storytelling. The work has been described as “a meticulously timed delivery of vocal pyrotechnics,” and I see that as a reflection not only of technical precision, but of the intention behind every word, pause, and performance. More than anything, I’m proud of the impact I bring not only outside work but into it too. Introducing new audiences to applying voice to lived experiences that aren’t always represented and pushing culture forward in a way that feels both innovative and rooted. Alongside my creative journey, my greatest pride lies at home. My wife and my little girl are my grounding force, my constant inspiration, and the reason behind everything I strive to build. They remind me daily of the importance of purpose, balance, and legacy. Plus, if I’m being honest, they keep me firmly in check too.

One piece of advice for someone at the start of their career. 

Legacy isn't about who speaks your name, it’s about what echoes when they do. As you don't get to choose who tells your story, but you do get to narrate what that story is. Make it a good one!