This year’s theme for Black History Month is Celebrating our Sisters, Saluting our Sisters, and Honouring Matriarchs of Movements. It is a landmark occasion to recognise and applaud the invaluable contributions of black women to British society, inspire future generations, and empower them.

As part of NELFT’s commitment to celebrating diversity, equality and inclusion, our Ethnic Minority Network held a Trust wide Webinar open to all staff and held the AHP Black History Month poetry competition. We will also be sharing videos from colleagues throughout the month as they talk about what Black History Month means to them.

The first video features Nadia Ahmed, NELFT's Young Adults Network Leader, interviewed by Joanne Feld of the Havering Emotional Support Team (HEST).

Nadia discusses her role as NELFT’s Young Adults Network Leader, what Black History Month means to her, what barriers and challenges she’s faced, those who have inspired her, and advice she’d give to her younger self.

When asked about advice to other young people, Nadia said:

“You have the potential to achieve what is greatness. Surround yourself with people who are positive influences… Your voices matter. Go out there and shine. Because you are the leaders of tomorrow.”

Watch the video below: