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Celebrating Diversity at St Charles
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The Learning Support Department at St. Charles kicked off its Celebrating Diversity project 2023-24 this month by conducting interviews with a cross-section of the LS team and students, with students and staff interviewing each other as part of Black History Month.
Black people from African and Caribbean communities are an integral part of British history and society and Black History Month is a time of reflection, inspiration and celebration. This year’s UK theme is ‘Saluting our Sisters’, so it is fitting we salute our hardworking and inspirational sisters in the LS first, followed by our “brothers”!
Denice Wilson-Gayle (staff)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
I am a British born Black woman working in education supporting students, particularly those with SEND needs. My maternal family are from the twin island of Trinidad and Tobago, whilst my paternal family are Jamaican. I have lived in both the United States and the UK. Being a dual citizen, I have been able to appreciate and acknowledge the importance of culture and diversity. Whilst my formative years were spent in Brooklyn, New York, my most profound memories were made in London. I have lived in Harlesden for over 20 years. Harlesden is known for its vibrant Caribbean influenced culture, hosting prominent places such as Hawkeye Records, one of the oldest Black owned record shops in the UK. Living in Harlesden and being fully immersed in Black culture has had a huge impact on my personality.
What does your black heritage mean to you?
My Black heritage is very important to me. Being raised by a grandfather who was a part of the Windrush generation, he instilled in each of his grandchildren the importance of resilience, hard work and equality. Therefore, I apply these qualities to my personal and professional life. Being Black means accepting every aspect of who I am, including my race and culture.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
My Black heritage provides me with an inspirational story. It allows me to see Black people, especially Black women and what they have achieved and leads me to be inspired and motivated to reach my goals. It also inspires and motivates me to be the best version of myself irrespective of external barriers that I may be faced with.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
Black History Month is very important, it is a dedicated month to highlight the magnificent work that Black people have contributed in society across all sectors. I believe that sometimes in British culture, many of the contributions that Black people have provided are almost overlooked and sometimes forgotten.
How should can/could we celebrate it more effectively in college/society at large?
I believe Black History is celebrated in the college, especially through expression of those who identify as BAME. The college can better focus on highlighting and celebrating the experiences of young Black people within the education sector allowing them to feel that their experiences, thoughts and feelings are visible and widely acknowledged. The education sector as a whole should implement more Black culture and history throughout the curriculum, as Black History is just as important and impactful.
Lynette Mills (staff)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
Although I migrated to Britain this summer (I was born and raised in Trinidad & Tobago), I see myself as a Caribbean woman. My black heritage is therefore rooted in “Caribbeanness” and that means diversity runs through my veins. The Caribbean’s long history of migration, both forced and voluntary, has made it a place of tremendous (sometimes bewildering to outsiders), mixes of cultures which constitute the norm. Such multi-culturalism is reflected not only in the variety of people and practices, but in the broad worldview and acceptance of difference it has created in me.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
I am always inspired by the greatness achieved by black ancestors, their spirituality and the resilience shown in overcoming various forms of oppression. When I reflect on the way the contribution of Black Britons is celebrated in Britain today, it is motivational, because they faced seemingly insurmountable challenges when they first came to Britain. It is a constant reminder of a life lesson I think is applicable to everyone: no matter what challenges we face individually there is always a way to find or make the path to a better life. This lesson has been a fundamental part of my teaching philosophy for at least the past 20 years, because I believe pursuing education is one way we can make or find that path to a better life.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
Black History month in England is important because it is a starting point towards the recognition that Black History is part of British history. It can be better celebrated in the college by those of us with responsibility for teaching learning, highlighting the black (i.e. non-European) origins of many innovations, concepts and ideas already being taught in subjects like, science, mathematics, religion, etc.
Anita Makanju (staff)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
My name is Anita Makanju and I’m from Nigeria. I moved to the UK a year and a half ago to obtain my masters in Global Healthcare Management after completing my Nursing degree back home. At St. Charles Sixth Form College, I am currently employed as a Learning Support Assistant. I am a positive person that enjoys dancing, listening to music, making new friends with fascinating individuals, and spending time with my family and friends.
What does your black heritage mean to you?
Black heritage holds a special place in my heart because I value my culture and the hardworking people who make up my country. It inspires me to pursue my goals and never give up because many Nigerians, such Wole Soyinka and Aliko Dangote, have made significant contributions to the world.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
My black heritage inspires me strongly because it exposes me to people from my culture who have excelled in life and had a positive influence on the world.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
The significance of Black History Month stems from the historical neglect of the influence of African culture on Western civilization. Amazingly, both Africans and Caribbean people are now getting the recognition they deserve. It matters to me because I am aware that one day my contribution to the world will be recognised during Black History Month.
How should can/could we celebrate it more effectively in college/society at large?
In my opinion, Black History Month may be observed in the college by honouring Black alumni who are pursuing jobs and are either employed in their current field of study or have graduated from universities.
India Dove (L2 Travel & Tourism student)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
I am Black British and I was raised in South West London. My mum is Jamaican and my Dad is Nigerian. I am more influenced by my Jamaican culture. Being raised by a Jamaican mother I have been able to appreciate a lot of things such as music, having good rhythm and especially the food. My favourite is jerk chicken and rice & peas. It’s the actual best!
What does your black heritage mean to you?
My Black heritage is important to me. It allows me to be confident and brave. It also gives me a ‘vibe’ that is hard to imitate.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
My Black heritage inspires me to be brave. There is a song by Shaniel Muir, who is from Jamaica. The lyrics are in Jamaican patois but it reminds Black people, I think even more importantly Black girls that the melanin that we have shows our history and we should be proud of who are. The song is called ‘Black is Beautiful.’ Hearing the lyrics inspires me and it makes me feel uplifted.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
Black History Month is important. I think Black History is every day. Black people are growing and the community is getting stronger. When you look back at history and you see all the things that Black people have overcome you feel a sense of pride. I think Black History month reminds us of everything that Black people have done and they continue to do.
How should can/could we celebrate it more effectively in college/society at large?
I think the college can showcase more history. I’m looking forward to seeing if a cultural day will happen this year, that way we can celebrate being Black and show off our history, culture and heritage within the wider community.
Taniyra Brown (Student)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
My family are from Jamaica and I am a Black British young woman. Having Afro-Caribbean roots has made me appreciate beauty, culture and music.
What does your black heritage mean to you?
My Black heritage allows me to be unique and appreciate the skin and hair that I have. I have dreadlocks and it makes me feel powerful as well as beautiful. My Black heritage denounces European beauty standards and it makes me look towards self-beauty, which is Black beauty to me.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
My Black heritage motivates and inspires me, especially when I see Black celebrities like Beyoncé and even Halle Bailey, who recently became the first Black Disney Princess, Ariel, in a live action movie. Seeing Halle, having her natural hair displayed on an international scale has inspired, driven and reinforced me to love who I am.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
Black History Month is important because it reminds us how important Black people are and the contributions Black people have made across the UK and the globe.
How should can/could we celebrate it more effectively in college/society at large?
The college can celebrate Black History Month more by getting external speakers or motivators, particularly from the area to come and inspire the students, especially as the college is prominently Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic.
Joguina Mokekola (L3 Performing Arts Student)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
Although I was born in the UK, my family are from the Congo.
What does your black heritage mean to you?
I like having Congolese heritage as it one of the biggest countries in Africa with a lot of traditions and customs that have been shared down through generations.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
The Congo is one of the most significant cultural centres in Africa and as a creative and artistic person myself (I study performance and theatre) I look to them especially for inspiration in my dancing and acting. I love the vibrant colours in our traditional dress also.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
Yes, I think it is very important. Anything that raises the profile and understanding of the struggles black people have faced in society and continue to today as well as raising awareness about all the amazing achievements Black people have accomplished all over the world.
How should can/could we celebrate it more effectively in college/society at large?
Having a Cultural Day or Week in college so everyone can celebrate their backgrounds/heritage together.
Aundrieux Sankofa (staff)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
I am from St. Lucia and Guyana. Indigenous Caribbean and Ghanaian ancestry.
What does your black heritage mean to you?
Knowing where you came from is very important.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
It’s inspiring to see awareness raising events around the country.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
It’s important to celebrate who you are and your heritage.
How should can/could we celebrate it more effectively in college/society at large?
A series of events at the College throughout the month eg have a special menu of Cultural foods served at lunch times reflecting our history/heritage/cuisine etc.
Chris Gyakyi (staff)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
Of African descent and specifically, from Ghana. My parents’ cultural clan/tribe are ‘Ashanti’ and ‘Fanti’. I am the eldest of 3 and have 2 younger siblings. I have visited Ghana on more than 2 occasions, the last being July 2019 and I am hoping to go again in July 2024. I love and continue to embrace my childhood ‘cultural practices’ such as food and music.
What does your black heritage mean to you?
Extremely important and significant: Sense of immense pride, having an ‘identity with dignity’, symbol of hope, development, achievement & power and a source of knowledge/education.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
To be as successful (academically, health wise, family orientated, financially stable) as possible. Be recognised (socially and professionally) as a highly respected individual.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
Black History should be celebrated throughout the year/in its entirety instead of just in October. It is marketed (in my opinion) as a product that is ‘brought/put out on the shop shelves’ once a year!!!
How should can/could we celebrate it more effectively in college/society at large?
Enlarged framed pictures/photos of influential figures (Muhammed Ali, Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, Bob Marley etc, etc) displayed in college public areas. Student awards named after these individuals reflecting specific characteristics (perseverance, commitment, quality of work/high grades etc).
Cyprian Felix (staff)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
My parents were immigrants form the west indies in the Caribbean and came to the United Kingdom in the 1950s (The Windrush Period).
What does your black heritage mean to you?
My black heritage is important to me because my culture is part of who I am as a person. I grew up listening to Calypso music, which is a West Indian style of music that is played in certain West Indian islands such as Trinidad, Grenada, Dominica and St Lucia.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
My heritage inspires me because it informs me about where my roots started from in the first place. My family were a hardworking family of builders, making a living out of building houses. My Grandfather was a Building constructor, and my uncles were taught by him and became workers in this profession.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
Yes. Black History is important, because it educates Black and other different cultures about the history of black people. It illustrates the achievements of Black people, but also the misfortunes of them, which is apparent in most nations and cultures. I believe that if one learns about Black History and other people’s cultures more, then there will be less ignorance and fear and more awareness, in the world around us.
How should can/could we celebrate it more effectively in college/society at large?
Finally, society can contribute to Black History by having a class module in a history lesson about something that had happened Black History that was quite epic. I think we should celebrate it more because it will eradicate ignorance and fear and encourage more awareness.
Lomana Lualua (L3 Travel and Tourism Student)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
I am 18 from a family of 6 with a Congolese background. I enjoy spending time with my friends and I like football.
What does your black heritage mean to you?
The food, social gatherings, the traditions and the sense of belonging.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
It motivates me to want go back and see what it is like where my family are from.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
Yes, Black History Month is important because it helps other people know about the history and the different journeys and experiences our grandparents etc have had and their contributions to the cultural, economic and political life of the UK.
Rakim Shakur (L3 ICT student)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
I’m Black and proud! I like gaming and listening to songs. I also like FPS games.
What does your black heritage mean to you?
My black heritage means I come from a long line of cultural and spiritual people. We have our own ways of food and dance etc. which we celebrate and are proud of.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
It gives me a background; an identity. I know what my family history is and its influence on me as a young black person living in the UK.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
I think there is a bit of a danger it can be tokenistic and misrepresented, are we not Black all year round and not just for one moth of the year?! However, I do accept if done correctly it can educate people and help dismantle the systems that made the idea of a Black History Month necessary in the first place!
How should can/could we celebrate it more effectively in college/society at large?
Getting black people to host/ organise the events, black people should run and be in the events so a true picture is shared!
Devante Platt (L3 Diploma in Business & AL Economics student)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
I am of Jamaican heritage.
What does your black heritage mean to you?
I embrace my culture. I remember visiting Jamaica as a child and enjoying meeting and getting to know my Jamaican family of cousins etc.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
It motivates me to stay true to myself and my background.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
Black History month gives people like me, born in the UK an opportunity to learn about my history and culture. It’s very important.
How should can/could we celebrate it more effectively in college/society at large?
Have more events at college through the month with student participation/ involvement and link up with the wider community on events.
Ahmed Galib (student)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
My parents are from Somalia. I was born and raised in London, England.
What does your black heritage mean to you?
In my own words, it definitely means a lot to me because it has made me the man that I am today! It gives me the opportunities to showcase my heritage and the person that I am as a result of its influences. Black History gives me an opportunity to learn about my culture and this is something I am definitely proud of!
How does it inspire/motivate you?
There are so many ways it inspires and motivates me like gaining more knowledge about role models that teach us about good ethical behaviour and principles such as Martin Luther king, Rosa Parks, Nelson Mandela and etc. I
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
It is a time for us to reflect on how far we have come as a nation but also how far we have to go for true equality also.
How should can/could we celebrate it more effectively in college/society at large?
Encourage students to write and learn motivational quotes from black role model. Celebrate Quanza, which is a Black celebration (Christmas)!
(L3 Business student)
Tell me a bit about yourself?
I am a young British Born but of an African Heritage.
What does your black heritage mean to you?
It means a lot to me. It basically highlights the various cultures, beliefs and other interesting facts about my descendants.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
It inspires me by giving me a sense of belonging, determination, confidence amongst others.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
Personally, Black History month is important in today’s modern age especially, to the younger generations. By highlighting the achievements of so many talented people are way of encouraging the society that every human being has a unique, in built talents within and they are capable of utilising them to the fullest.
How should can/could we celebrate it more effectively in college/society at large?
Black History Month can further be improved by also engaging students in primary, secondary, sixth forms, colleges and universities. If possible, it should be embedded as part of the extra curricular activities. By so doing this, it prepares the mindsets of children from an early age to utilise the talents within them and then continually exploring different opportunities that may arise.
Zaine Richmond
Tell me a bit about yourself?
I am a Black British young person, with Afro-Caribbean roots who lives in West London. My parents are from Grenada. Grenada is a beautiful island in the West Indies and has beautiful beaches and a lot of culture. Being raised by Grenadian parents, who are Black, I have been able to have discipline and appreciate a lot of things.
What does your black heritage mean to you?
My Black heritage has a lot of meaning for me. It makes me appreciate my skin, culture and the Black experience.
How does it inspire/motivate you?
My Black heritage motivates and inspires me to work hard and strive for the best. I recently watched a TV show called ‘Three Little Birds.’ It was about the Windrush generation and it showed me the importance of being resilient and proud of who you are.
Is Black History Month important? What do you think?
Black History Month is important because it allows you to celebrate Black culture and also be reminded how special Black people are.
How should can/could we celebrate it more effectively in college/society at large?
I think the college can celebrate Black History month more by being more interactive and immersive. For example, having a showcase assembly where different Black students can display their many talents.
Thank you to all the LS staff and students who contributed to this article. It’s lovely to hear all about your heritage and the part it plays in your lives!