Celebrating Black History Month in the workplace

• What does Black History Month mean to you?

It holds great significance to me as it’s a time to reflect on and celebrate the remarkable contributions and achievements of black people throughout history. It’s a reminder of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped our society.

As a second generation Brit, I often think about how different my life would be if my nan had stayed in Jamaica and didn’t move to the UK in the 1950s. I am very thankful for the sacrifices she made to give her children (and future grandchildren) a better life, as I know she faced a lot of racism. She was part of the Windrush generation who helped the UK rebuild its economy after WW2.

• Why do you think it’s important for institutions and workplaces to recognise and celebrate Black History Month?

It’s important to recognise and celebrate Black History Month because it acknowledges the importance of diversity and inclusion. It creates an environment where everyone’s unique experiences and perspectives are valued. Through doing this, it also helps to raise awareness about the history and challenges black individuals often face, which can lead to meaningful conversations.

It can be disheartening when there aren't many faces that look like mine in the advertising space and can feel like no one really cares to change it. I often feel that I won’t be able to level up and progress as there are hardly any black individuals in senior positions. Not having anyone to look up to in that regard is challenging. However, I always have a great sense of pride when Black History Month comes around. It’s a reminder that I do have a voice, a voice that’s important and one that can create change.

• This year’s focus is on inspiring Black women - who are some of the most inspiring Black women in your life and why?

There are so many I could name! My nan would have to be number one. The sacrifice she made for her family was admirable. She came to the UK in a time where there were “No Blacks, No Irish and No Dogs” plastered on different buildings and I can’t imagine what that did to her mental health and self esteem. I recently learnt that she disliked living in the UK and wanted to return to Jamaica but she knew there were better opportunities here for her children. What I loved the most about my nan was her sense of pride and how she didn’t lose her Jamaican identity. She was always well put together and taught me about my heritage.

The second woman I would say is one of my older cousins. She grew up in South London and moved to Surrey around the age of 11 which was a difficult experience for her. She went from a multicultural area to then being one of the only black girls in her entire secondary school. She often told me how difficult it was navigating through that and how she very much felt “othered”, whether that was due to her hairstyles, culture or way of dressing. But amazingly she used her experiences to shape both her Masters and PhD research, where she combined fashion history with black culture. The research she’s conducting is something that will be useful for future students and educators.

• How has your heritage impacted your professional or personal opportunities/experiences?

My heritage has had a significant impact on both my professional and personal experiences. In my professional life, I often feel the need to work harder to prove myself and break through barriers, as systemic biases have historically hindered the progress of black individuals. It is easy to trigger my anxiety at times because there's an unsaid pressure of "you can never make a mistake as it can cost you, no matter how big or small". Being one of the only black women in the workplace, and not having anyone to look up to in senior positions, is tough because there’s an underlying feeling of not belonging, and I’m often asking myself “Can I progress further?” With this being said, it has made me more resilient and determined to be in rooms my ancestors would have never been invited to.

On a personal level, it has shaped my identity and given me a rich cultural background. It's allowed me to connect with and learn from my nan's experiences, providing a strong sense of pride and belonging. I love being Jamaican. My culture is beautiful and it is amazing to see the influence it has made on the world. 

It has also fueled my commitment to social justice and equity, where I'm a big advocate for change. We’ve come a long way but there is still progress to be made. So, while my heritage has and still presents obstacles, it has also been a source of strength, resilience, and a deeper understanding of the world around me.

• Can you recall any campaigns relating to Black History Month that have moved or impacted you in some way?

It’s not a campaign per say but in 2020, the BBC released a series of short films vividly highlighting stories of hard-won victories against many forms of racism. It was a great reflection of both Caribbeans and Londoners on film that delved into the real cultural nuances that were a part of daily life. It portrayed the stories that my mum told me growing up as to what her childhood was like in the ‘60s and ‘70s.

• Are there any Black figures throughout history that have especially inspired you and why?

There are various black figures who have inspired me, especially in the fashion realm - Virgil Abloh, Kanye West and Edward Enninful to name just a few. They all pioneered the fashion space, making an impact like no other.

Rihanna is also another big one for me, she really can do it all. She holds such influence when it comes to music, fashion and beauty, all whilst staying true to herself. Launching Fenty Beauty truly cemented her name in contemporary culture for years to come, and forced so many brands to think about representation and why certain skin tones aren’t catered to. 

She ignited a conversation around diversity in the beauty industry and became an icon for it! Growing up, it was extremely difficult finding a foundation that matches my skin tone so Fenty Beauty was testament to the fact that I can and should have the tools to create art and feel good about myself.