Newsreader Charlene White explains how she overcame prejudice to become a successful journalist

ITV newsreader Charlene White told the Loose Women how overcame prejudice in order to become one a powerful woman in journalism.

Speaking about her experiences in conjunction with the launch of ITV's Black Voices campaign, Charlene shared a story about a viewer who'd phoned in and complained when she delivered a news bulletin early on in her career.

"My colleague answered the phone and was shocked but I'd been expecting it," she said. "I'm used to being the only black person in the room and I know how uncomfortable that can make others feel, but I wouldn't be where I am today without resilience."

Reflecting on the incident, Charlene, who went on to become the first black woman to present ITV’s News At Ten, explained why it's so important to speak out.

"I think it's important for people to know that it doesn't matter where you are in life as a black person in the UK, you've usually had to fight quite a few battles before you reach the point at where you are," she said.

She also told the panel she believes it's so important for parents to speak to their children about racism: "It is important, otherwise these sorts of situations just keep happening, unless we're honest with our kids."

Watch Charlene's chat with the Loose Women in the video above and catch her on ITV News on the ITV Hub.

Watch Loose Women weekdays from 12.30pm on ITV, STV and the ITV Hub.