WOMEN BEHIND THE CAMERA

From the sidelines to the spotlight, the women behind the camera in Charlotte are making major plays for sports organizations. Get ready to cheer them on as we shine a well-deserved spotlight on these gamechanging ladies

Alicia Harris

It's 2023, yet women who work in sports broadcasting still face hurdles. However, dedicated professionals like Alicia Harris, Zhou Klee, and Jonae Benson are changing the narrative. These women are the unsung heroes behind cherished moments in sports, from Sunday Night Football, National Hockey League games, and collegiate sports, making the magic happen for viewers nationwide.

West

Coast Meets East

Coast

Hailing from Sacramento, California, Alicia Harris is a powerhouse in sports media. She's left her mark on major media platforms as a contracted camera operator and content creator. Harris's journey through the world of sports is diverse, covering basketball, football, track, and even hockey. Her talent has shone up on networks such as ESPN and TNT, capturing dynamic moments and stories.

One of Harris's standout experiences was working on an NHL game for TNT through Programming Productions. "Being a creative, I find joy in expressing myself through my work, especially when it's broadcasted or streamed. It feels amazing to be a part of history in my own unique way," Harris reflects.

An Internship Opens Doors

Harris's career began with an international twist – an internship in Buenos Aires with Estudios Caracol, facilitated by her university and Go Abroad. This global experience laid the foundation for her future successes. Upon returning to Alabama, she started as a camera operator for the Montgomery Baseball team, a role that kick-started her professional journey in media.

An Unexpected Career Pivot

A significant turning point came when Harris moved to Charlotte with her fiancé, seeking better opportunities. A call from an acquaintance led to her first contracted gig, a moment that reshaped her career path. "That experience opened my eyes to the possibilities beyond a traditional media job. It was then I realized I could make a career out of this," Harris says. Following in the Footsteps of Heroes

In the entertainment world, Harris draws inspiration from industry giants like Ava Duvernay, Ryan Coogler, and Issa Rae. Her ambition doesn't stop at sports; Harris aspires to transition into television and film, using her skills either in front or behind the camera. "I've already dipped my toes into this field, working on an Apple segment and a Chevy commercial as a production assistant during the pandemic," she adds. With a network of connections and a reservoir of talent, Alicia Harris is on a trajectory to redefine her role in the media landscape, proving that women in sports broadcasting are not just participants but game-changers.

From Charlotte to Duke

Charlotte's very own Jonae Benson is a key figure behind the scenes in college football, particularly at Duke University. At 25, she serves as the Associate Director of Football Recruitment, a role that combines her passion for the sport with her talent for strategic planning and communication. Benson's responsibilities are integral to Duke's football program. "I organize events for prospective studentathletes, focusing on the defensive side. This involves arranging both official and unofficial visits and engaging recruits through creative graphics, tailored writing campaigns, and coordinated messages," she explains.

A Personal Passion Leads to Designing the Play

Her love for football, ignited by watching games with her father, has evolved into a rewarding career path. Benson finds joy in connecting with Black families of potential athletes, understanding the unique dynamics and concerns they may have. "In a predominantly white institution, it's crucial to have representation in the athletic department, especially in a sport with mostly Black athletes," she remarks.

Her journey began at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where Benson pursued sports nutrition as an intern. "I loved contributing to the athletes' holistic health and gaining insight into the unique experiences of student-athletes," she recalls.

Perseverance and Sacrifice Pays Off

Benson, who graduated in 2020 with a degree in psychology, exercise, and sports science, continued to explore sports nutrition at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. "I started working at their fueling station, initially unpaid, but my dedication led to the creation of a paid position for me," she shares.

In 2022, Benson sought further academic advancement, leading her to Clemson’s Athletic Leadership Program and the University of South Carolina’s master's program in sports and entertainment marketing. This educational pursuit coincided with her