" The biggest obstacle when I was younger was geographical. I was living in Blackburn and the ITV and BBC studios were in London, and I thought: ‘How do I get there? I need to be there.’ "
- A. J. Odudu

The quote reflects a common challenge faced by many aspiring professionals who live far from industry centers or hubs where opportunities are concentrated. In this case, the speaker, A.J. Odudu, expresses her struggle with the physical distance between her home town of Blackburn and the major media outlets in London, which she felt were essential to achieving her career goals.

On a deeper level, the quote highlights the broader issue of accessibility and opportunity disparity based on geographical location. For individuals starting out in any field, especially one that is highly centralized like broadcasting or journalism, there can be significant barriers due to distance from major industry centers. This challenge isn't just about physical travel but also encompasses the difficulty of networking, gaining visibility, and receiving mentorship from established professionals who are far away. The quote encapsulates a sense of determination and aspiration, as well as the underlying frustration of feeling constrained by one's location.

A.J. Odudu is a British journalist and broadcaster known for her work with various television networks in the United Kingdom. Her career spans multiple areas within media including news reporting, presenting, and social media engagement. Born and raised in Blackburn, she has navigated numerous geographical and professional hurdles to establish herself as a prominent figure in the UK broadcasting industry.