Black History Month: Derrick Grant

Next up we have the founder of PBBN (The Positive Black News Network), Derrick Grant! It’s an app that sends you a slice of positive black news every week. Derrick was overwhelmed with notification highlighting police brutality, racism and corruption and wanted to find a way to celebrate the achievements of the black community.

Did you always know this was the career you wanted?

I had a tiger mom so yes. Every week form the age of 5/6 we went to the library where I was allowed 1 book on a topic of interest at the time. Occasionally my mom would ask if what I wanted to be when I grew up and I'd reply a chef because I liked eating or a designer because I read somewhere that artist died poor.

What's something people would be surprised to learn about you?

Hmmm I'm pretty tall like 6'6 tall. But think I have a small head so this often comes as a shock after seeing a profile pics.

What is the most fulfilling part of your work?

Definitely getting feedback. Earlier this year a PBBN reader from the US reached out because she had difficulties with the app as an impaired reader. It's great to know that she valued what she could read highly enough to get in touch and was also a great reminder that we still have a lot of work to do to improve our experience.

What are you currently working on?

Setting up PBNN as a tool for mental health. It's early days for digital products created for better well being and apps like headspace and calm are leading the way.

My vision for PBBN has always been utilitarian in nature so going beyond serving 'feel good facts' and actually clinically proving the app is a tool which increases self-esteem amongst the black community is one of our goals.

I'm also working on a digital funeral-care platform called Willow. Currently Willow sells 'green' funeral products directly to the public and we'll be adding more features next year.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I'd tell the dude to keep doing what he's doing and things will work out in the end

Have you faced any backlash for trying to concentrate on positive black news?

No and that partly due to the design of the app which doesn't allow for comments. We also have very little social presence, not because concern over trolling but we're still thinking about what unique value we can bring our readers through those channels.

What's your favourite story you've covered on the app?

As a brummy I'd have to go with our fact of the year: 'Birmingham City University is the first university in Europe to offer a degree in Black Studies. The course will focus on the histories, social movements and contributions of people of African descent.'

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