Standing firm in power and pride

October is Black History Month. Our colleague Oluwabusayomi Mesele discusses this year’s theme – standing firm in power and pride.

Black History Month takes place across the UK in October each year. The month is a time to share, celebrate and understand the impact of black heritage and culture.

This year’s theme for Black History Month is ‘Standing firm in power and pride’, highlighting the resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment to progress that defines the Black community across the globe. The month celebrates profound contributions made by Black people be they leaders, activists, or pioneers who have shaped history, while also looking towards a future of continued empowerment, unity, and growth.

At Skills for Care supporting equity, diversity and inclusion is a key value. You can find resources and support we have available on our dedicated Black History Month webpage.

Throughout the month we’ll be sharing stories of things happening across social care to support racial equality and Black History Month.

This week we hear from our colleague Oluwabusayomi Mesele about what ‘Standing firm in power and pride’ means to him, and how he witnesses the importance of empowerment in social care through his role at Skills for Care.

Oluwabusayomi’s insights

As a locality co-ordinator at Skills for Care, I’m proud to stand alongside colleagues in celebrating Black History Month - a time to honour the legacy, resilience, and brilliance of Black individuals and communities across the UK and beyond.

This year, we reflect on what it means to stand firm in power and pride which has a deeper meaning to individuals, but ultimately, it’s about recognising the strength that comes from knowing who we are, where we come from, and the value we bring, not just during October, but every day. Knowing that I AM before IT IS perceived and embraced. It’s about being unapologetically visible, vocal, and proud of our heritage, while continuing to challenge unequal systems that silence or exclude.

In my role, I see first-hand the importance of creating spaces where people feel empowered to show up fully and authentically. Whether through our work in our different roles or through staff engagement, organisation must continue to uplift voices, celebrate contributions, and advocate for equity.

Let’s use this month to listen deeply to unspoken needs of others, learn intentionally, lead with pride and celebrate the most unqualified black person you know. I am standing firm in our power, and inspiring others to do the same, together we can make a difference.

Find more information and support for Black History Month.

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