EssenceMediacom’s Jazmaree Bell is an overachiever and an emerging trailblazer in the industry. Both facts that led her to becoming a B&T 30 Under 30 Awards, presented by Vevo, winner earlier this year.
As we gear up for another night of celebration and crystal-ball gazing to find tomorrow’s bosses, B&T sat down with Bell to find out what’s changed since she took home one of our sought-after trophies.
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B&T: What’s happened in your career since being recognised as part of B&T’s 30 Under 30?
Jazmaree Bell: Since being recognised as part of B&T’s 30 Under 30, I’ve felt more motivated than ever to keep growing in my career. The recognition was incredibly affirming and has opened new opportunities across WPP Media.
This year has been one of the most rewarding in my career so far. Shortly after the 30 Under 30 recognition, I transitioned to a new role at EssenceMediacom through our internal mobility program. It’s been a fantastic opportunity for growth and learning, and I’ve gained valuable insights into large-scale client work.
I’ve also been fortunate to receive further recognition as a finalist in B&T’s Women in Media Rising Star category and Mediaweek’s Next of the Best Changemaker award, and while recognition isn’t everything, I’m truly grateful for these opportunities and motivated to continue striving to be worthy of them.
Stepping into the role of NGEN Co-Chair has been another highlight. It’s an honour to help inspire and support the next generation of media professionals and I look forward to supporting the MFA and NGEN team across 2025/2026’s fantastic sessions.
I’ve been able to expand my passion for presenting, where I had the privilege of being on stage at WPP Media On Tour, our internal conference, sharing my talk, “3 Secrets to Breakthrough Thinking,” exploring how aligning your passions with your work can drive creativity and positive change in media.
Continuing my involvement with EssenceMediacom’s pro bono client, Dolly’s Dream, has been another deeply meaningful experience. This year, we achieved record-breaking results in donations and media value, which was an incredible team effort and something I feel proud of.
I’ve also continued my work in policy advocacy by joining WPP Media’s Young Leaders Committee NCO, supporting initiatives like the Salary Transparency Policy, which recently was recognised at the MFA awards. Being part of shaping policies that create real impact across all levels of the business has been an experience I’ve valued and am keen to do more of.
B&T: What are your career ambitions? Has this changed after being recognised this year?
JB: My career ambitions can be summed up in three areas: supporting future talent, driving meaningful policy change, and making media matter. If anything, that has been solidified for me.
While I do aspire to one day lead at the highest level, I believe leadership is about actions, not always titles. My focus remains on using my role to create positive change in the areas that mean most to me.
As someone still early in my career, I understand how powerful it is to have mentors who inspire you to create change. Whether through leading my team, serving as NGEN co-chair, or representing Pride and Diversity initiatives, I want to help others find their confidence and voice early in their careers. I have been so fortunate in my time at EssenceMediacom to be not just listened to, but truly heard and empowered. Leadership across WPP Media have really brought out the best in me, and I want to pay it forward.
I’m also committed to driving policies that make our workplaces and industry fairer and more inclusive. My input into WPP Media’s Transgender Affirmation and Salary Transparency policies is just the beginning. Something I would like to contribute to is establishing an industry-wide Domestic and Family Violence Policy.
B&T: What trends or opportunities are exciting you in the industry?
JB: What excites me most isn’t a trend, but a shift. Our industry is becoming more inclusive, thoughtful and intentional about representation, and that’s something I’m deeply passionate about.
As a member of the MFA’s Diversity Council, I was thrilled by the launch of Project Diverse with Roy Morgan. It’s a landmark initiative spearheaded by Elena Giannini, Katy Eng and Luisa Dalli that truly helps modernise Australia’s audience planning data to better reflect our society.
I’m also inspired by how media can create tangible social impact. EssenceMediacom’s long-term partnership with Dolly’s Dream is a perfect example of this. The campaign continues to save lives, support parents and schools, and make a lasting difference in communities. Seeing that impact reminds me why I love this industry.
B&T: Why did you choose to enter this year’s 30 Under 30?
JB: I’ve always admired the leaders who came before me, many of whom are part of the 30 Under 30 alumni. Seeing people like Katherine Pochroj win in 2022 was incredibly inspiring, especially as she’s gone on to redefine what impact in media can look like with her leadership on Dolly’s Dream and as EssenceMediacom’s Head of Investment for Sydney.
To me, 30 Under 30 celebrates not only achievement but potential, and that was something I wanted to work toward. I first entered in 2024 and was lucky to be shortlisted, which encouraged me to re-enter in 2025 with even more drive.
I was also supported and encouraged by my agency, which meant a lot to me. Beyond the award itself, I see entering 30 Under 30 as an opportunity for reflection and growth. It helps me look back on what I’ve learned, where I’ve grown, and what I can keep improving.
B&T: What advice would you give to other emerging leaders in the industry?
JB: I’d say bring more than just your media skills to the table. Your passions, values and interests are your biggest assets to invoke new thinking and change. I believe the best leaders are ones who lead authentically, because that’s what builds meaningful connections and creates better outcomes for their teams, clients and the industry as a whole.
Put your hand up for new challenges and seek opportunities to make your workplace and wider community better. Be proactive about your growth and don’t wait for opportunities to come your way, create your own.
And remember, leadership isn’t defined by title or tenure. Every voice matters. You don’t have to be the loudest in the room to make an impact. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is ask, “What if we tried this?”
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