Black History Month is marked every October, with a range of events, lectures and social gatherings organised all across the UK.
Taking place annually since 1987, Black History Month is a nationwide celebration of Black people’s contributions to British society throughout history. This year’s theme, ‘Reclaiming Narratives,’ invites us to reflect on and correct historical inaccuracies while highlighting the untold achievements and complexity of Black heritage, both within the UK and globally.
With close links across the community, the College has partnered with numerous talented individuals and companies to make the celebrations as impactful as possible.
Xaverian Alumni, Pol Donald Nkana Nkana and Mzimkhulu Mthethwa both visited the College to lead lectures and interactive workshops. Pol, motivational speaker, pharmacist and basketball player, met with students to engage in a courage-building exercise with his ‘Unmute Yourself’ workshop. Mzimkhulu, who now works for Sofar Sounds Manchester, a large-scale music events organiser, delivered a ‘The Kings of Amapiano’ workshop, which had everyone in attendance participating in planning, money managing and creating a spreadsheet for a music event.
Thinking Black visited the College to discuss Black heritage beyond stereotypes, through powerful stories, thought-provoking questions and Black British music. Rejoice Tshabangu, Trainee Forensic Psychologist, also met with students to talk about her career journey and role as a practitioner.
Throughout the month, staff and students within the Xaverian community were invited to watch a series of films during lunch periods including ‘Black Panther’ and the ‘Small Axe’ series, and also welcomed local businesses ‘Amelia Zoey’ run by Ivonette Jones who handcrafts accessories using African fabrics such as the chitenge.
Running concurrently with these events was the student poetry competition which encouraged all to submit an original piece based on the theme of ‘Reclaiming Narratives’. Faith Tagoe, former pupil of St Bede’s College and studying A Levels in English Language and Philosophy, Ethics & Theology and an Applied Diploma in Criminology, won the competition with her work entitled ‘The world that we live in’. As the competition winner, Faith will now perform her poem at a Sofar Sounds event early next year.
Commenting on her success, Faith said: “I was surprised when I found out I had won the competition! I tried to stay composed but by the end of the lunch break I had already called everyone in my contacts to tell them the news! I can’t wait to perform it live next year!
“My poem was inspired by the battles, cries and conflicts individuals endure and the struggles faced in challenging certain narratives. We all have a voice, so why should we be afraid to use it?
“I think it’s so important to celebrate awareness months like this – it is one of the first, very small, steps we can take to creating better environments. James Baldwin once said "not everything that is faced can be changed. But nothing can be changed until it is faced". I believe it is up to us to be in control of our own stories, that is what will change the world one day.
“One of the main reasons I love studying at Xaverian is the diverse community, a community in which everyone feels valued and loved. It is a special place to be!”
The month of events closed with a live streamed talk from Professor David Olusoga held at The University of Manchester. Students were immersed in the story of how Professor Olusoga came to be so captivated with history and his lifelong mission to uncover the hidden histories of the diverse contributions of so many to British history.
The College’s DEI activities are very closely linked to the College’s Xtras Enrichment Programme and Careers programmes. Students who participate in Xavazine, the College’s online magazine reporting on a mixture of stories from the heart of Manchester, had the opportunity to interview guest speakers and write articles for their site, and many students have secured mentoring opportunities and internships through networking across the month.
Helen Parkin and Marsell Mackintosh, Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) Co-Leads, said: “We're incredibly proud of our diverse community coming together to celebrate Black History Month, which is an important event within our DEI calendar. The month provided us with a fantastic opportunity to reflect on the past, recognise the present and show our support in creating a more equitable and inclusive future.
“At Xaverian, we are dedicated to fostering a learning environment where everyone feels listened-to, respected and valued. Throughout the month, we hosted a series of events, including guest speakers, panel discussions, film screenings, and community dialogues that highlight the achievements and voices of black staff, students, alumni and leaders. It was really pleasing to see so many individuals participate, engage in conversations and reflect on the significance of this month.”
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As one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the region, Xaverian College offers an extensive range of A Levels in addition to several BTEC courses. Visit xaverian.ac.uk to find out more.