Black History Month

WHAT WILL YOU DO FOR BLACK HISTORY?

Historical leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X are now synonymous with Black History. However, are they relevant to the youths today? Perhaps we as a society should identify current inspirational figures that the youth are familiar with and recognise their achievements and significant contributions they have made to society…

We live in a world where gangsters are respected and rap-stars are role models. Nevertheless, there are some celebrities who use their status to actively make a difference within the Black community such as: Oprah Winfrey, Nelson Mandela, Lord Herman Ouseley and Jeff Ihenacho who all aspire to inspire.

Oprah Winfrey has long believed that education is the door to freedom, offering a chance for a brighter future. Her private charity, The Oprah Winfrey Foundation has supported the education and empowerment of women, children and families around the world. Amongst her various philanthropic contributions, she has donated millions of dollars to charities, helped develop schools in the USA and South Africa and build women’s shelters, youth centres and homes around the world.

Nelson Mandela was an anti-apartheid activist and leader of the African National Congress who spent 27 years in prison. He is now a cultural icon representing freedom and equality and he received a Nobel Peace Prize in 1993. Mandela dedicated his life to creating a democratic free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities-an ideal he was prepared to die for.


Perhaps less known, but equally respected Brits, are: Lord Herman Ouseley and Jeff Ihenacho. Ouseley, born in Guyana came to England at the age of 11. He was the first black person to be appointed Inner London Education Authority, responsible for over 1000 schools. He was also the Chairman of the Commission for Racial Equality and is now the CEO of PRESET Education and Training trust, the football campaign, which aims to Kick Racism Out of Football.

Store owner and stylist Jeff Ihenacho works with everyone in the fashion circle from Tommy Hilfiger to Naomi Campbell- but once a week, he dedicates his time to visiting schools, giving guidance to youths on how to run a business and general personal development advice. He encourages adolescents to stay out of trouble by offering workshops in local youth centres. Surprisingly, Ihenacho has been working with children for over 10years- before he was a successful businessman.

As important as Black History is, we must not forget Black Future, by which I mean, those in our society who do all they can no matter how big or small, to make a positive, enriching impact on our future. Winfrey, Mandela, Ouseley and Ihenacho all share similar attributes; they have taken a stand to change the lives of others. So I ask: What will you do to impact Black History? After all, influence is a hard thing to quantify. But you know when you see it- in Oprah or Ouseley- and in the long run, it’s what making history, is all about.

Fadé Ogunro