When They Say ‘Professional,’ Do They Mean Us? – Pt.2

Pro Nannies Playdate, co-hosts Layla and Rée return for the second half of a powerful conversation exploring the racialised lens through which professionalism is often judged especially for Black women working in predominantly white, middle- and upper-class family settings.

Trigger Warning: This post discusses racism, unconscious bias, and discrimination.

The Unspoken Rules of “Professionalism”

Layla and Rée recount experiences that many Black nannies know too well: smiling through discomfort, avoiding “making things about race,” and tolerating microaggressions for the sake of keeping a job or maintaining “good chemistry” with a family. This episode goes beyond surface-level politeness and biting your tongue, to discuss the reality of having to defend your negative experiences while also comforting the people you share them with.

From comments about being "The Help" to discussions about racial slurs, what they describe is the emotional labour of existing in spaces where they are both highly trusted with children and yet quietly scrutinised in ways that undermine that trust.

These stories are not about isolated incidents. They reflect patterns — systems — that expect Black professionals to be accommodating, grateful, and, above all, quiet.

Boundaries Aren’t Optional. They’re Essential.

When They Say ‘Professional,’ Do They Mean Us? – Pt.2, also explores the importance of setting boundaries, especially in environments where your identity — your race, culture, and experiences — is marginalised.

For Black nannies, this can mean saying “no” to things that may seem harmless to others but carry heavy implications. Drawing a line in a conversation about personal experience, when despite your best efforts, the listener refuses to acknowledge your reality. It might even mean walking away from jobs that seem perfect on paper but are emotionally taxing in practice.

It’s about knowing your worth and refusing to compromise your dignity in exchange for a paycheque.

In this episode Rée and Layla recall moments when families showed up for them with empathy, understanding, and the kind of solidarity that reminds you you're not alone.

Let’s Redefine Professionalism Together

At Pro Nannies, we believe professionalism should never be code for assimilation. It should not require silence in the face of injustice or emotional erasure in the name of fitting in.

We’re committed to championing an industry that:

• Honours cultural identity

• Values emotional well-being

• Welcomes honest dialogue

• Supports Black and global majority professionals

• Raises the standard for inclusion, not just etiquette

This episode might not be an easy listen, but it’s a necessary one—especially for those who are committed to being part of the change.

Listen Now

Episode 13: “When They Say ‘Professional,’ Do They Mean Us?” Pt. 2 is available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you tune in.

Missed Part 1? Catch up here!

Have you experienced bias in your work as a nanny?

If you have a story to share, or a moment that changed how you see the job, we'd love to hear from you! DM us on Instagram @pronannies or email us at playdate@pro-nannies.com