What does Black History Month mean to you? A spotlight on the importance of celebrating different cultures.

As part of Black History Month we asked colleagues to share why culture and diversity is so important to them.

What is your cultural background? Or, with which cultural group do you identify?

My cultural background is Nigerian, African and my decent is from the Yoruba tribe.

What is the thing you are most proud of about your culture?

The traditions around family, respect and spirituality. Being proud of my culture means that I know I have a home when I feel alone. I know that I am not walking through this world alone. I have a community – a culture – behind me, supporting me, and pushing me forward.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black history to me refers to the customs, journey, stories and inventions created by Africans. Black History Month is about celebrating Black culture and appreciating the accomplishments of African people globally. I am especially excited about how this month impacts our children and grandchildren as they see all the wonderful contributions our people have made in this world.

What’s the most important message from Black History Month, for you?

Our history is more than slavery. We were once Kings & Queens and we have a truly rich history which must be told in its entirety.

Is there an historical black figure – or someone currently living – from whom you take inspiration?

Mansa Musa, King of Mali in the early 14th Century and ruler of an enormous empire from the Atlantic Ocean to the east side of Niger, was the richest human being to have ever walked this earth. His empire would have required the highest level of organisation, strategy and infrastructure. The people he fed, jobs he created and the respect he would have commanded would have been on epic proportions. The magnitude of what he was able to achieve for that time I find truly inspirational.

What are some of the ways you celebrate Black History Month?

By exploring as many events as possible and tasting a variety of African dishes that I have never tasted before. I also love learning and immersing myself in as many historical stories and events that I was previously unaware of.

On a deeper level, the celebration is to also acknowledge my ancestors who paved the way for me to be here today.

Have any of your non-black friends ever asked you about BHM and if so, what do you say it is about?

I tell them it’s a celebration of the entire history of African civilisation from our food, culture and largely the hidden contributions we made to society. It’s an opportunity for all cultures to learn more about us.