Current Students and Staff

To mark Black History Month, we spoke to two students and an alumnus about their thoughts on its continued significance and importance – as well as ideas for how everyone can get involved and show support throughout October and beyond.

Tara Nadi, student: “I am currently in my fourth year at Loughborough, studying Politics and International Relations. I am also the Chair of both the Ethnic Minorities Network (EMN) and POLIS and English Department at the Students' Union.

“The EMN aims to advocate for BME (Black and Minority Ethnic) students on campus by raising awareness of issues that may affect them - both in Loughborough and in wider society. To do this, we regularly run events, socials, campaigns and celebrations. All of our events are open to everyone, as I think it's important for us to create an open environment.”

Q: What is the importance of Black History Month to you? 

“It’s important to me because black history is so misunderstood or not studied at all. We tend to only hear about black people if they are exceptional, like if they become President. We don't hear about the thousands of black people who have also contributed to, or achieved, so much throughout history.”

Q: Name something you would like people to reflect on, or act on, during Black History Month

“I hope that people will attend events being put on by the University and EMN. There really is a variety of events to suit every taste. We are also really lucky to have lecturers, who are specialists in their field, delivering a series of public lectures, which will be a great way to learn about black history.

“I would also like people to feel comfortable asking questions, as that is the only way we can learn.”

 

Dr Ayodeji Akiwowo, alumnus: “I am a senior Data Scientist with BNP Paribas, based at the Solihull office. I am also the founder of Black Excellence (BE), UK.

 

“Within BE, we have four main strands:

• INSPIRE – identify inspiring black UK professionals in various fields, interview them for their stories and share these interviews on various platforms. They are called BE Achievers.
• ENABLE – provide resources and tools which will enable and empower users in their various endeavours at school, college, university or workplace, and life in general. In the past we have provided work shadowing opportunities, participated at school events, talking to students and giving mock interviews. We will continue to do these while also providing mentoring opportunities.
• PROMOTE – give visibility to businesses and services providing value owned by black entrepreneurs in the UK, irrespective of the size of the business.
• VOLUNTEER – coordinate the volunteers within the BE community.

“I coordinate the INSPIRE section whilst supporting other strands. Within INSPIRE, we have produced several inspiring videos (some in collaboration with Loughborough University) which can be found on our website.”

 

 

“Personally, it is important for me that all black people, particularly in the UK, know our history beyond slavery and colonialism. We need to consciously read through history and identify great men and women who contributed to the development and growth of not just this country but the world at large. 

 

“Writers like Ignatius Sancho and Olaudah Equiano and inventors like Otis Boykin and Patricia Era Bath amongst others. And where these stories have not been told, we need to tell our own stories. Stories about people like Chichi Nwanoku, Ebunoluwa Aderin-Pocock, Faith Uwadiae, Nira Chamberlain, Clifford Johnson, and so many others.”

 

 

“With BE Promote, we aim to promote businesses and services provided by black entrepreneurs in the UK. It would be nice if you can identify a black entrepreneur in the UK, particularly one who is just starting up and help to promote their business on your platform and among your network. Hopefully, you will continue this beyond Black History Month too!”

 

 

Reecia Richardson, student: “I am a final year Industrial Design and Technology student who is passionate about sustainable design. Aside from my studies, I enjoy learning about different cultures and their languages; whilst also being a violinist. 

 

“Last year I was the media officer for EMN, where I would make a variety of media communications to promote events and encourage students to engage with the network. I would regularly post on the Facebook page, highlighting significant events and dates for black and ethnic minorities.”

 

 

“Black History Month is very important to me as it’s a time where black individuals can highlight achievements within the black community, yet also preserve our history to keep fighting for equality. 

 

“It is particularly important as in the school curriculum and everyday life, black history is not acknowledged in our day to day lives. By having this month, it helps remind us that we do have a rich and vibrant history which is not solely slavery, as portrayed in our education system.”

 

 

“During this Black History Month, I would like people to reflect on the positive achievements that those within the black community have made and how far we've come as a community. I would also like for people to take action when they see or hear injustices happening, rather than staying silent. The support from other communities is significant for change. 

 

“I hope everyone learns something new and enjoys this year’s Black History Month.”