UK Black Comms Network’s Post

I had the incredible opportunity to attend the launch event for UK Black Business Week, and it was truly an honor to be invited. The timing couldn't have been more perfect, as it coincided with the beginning of Black History Month. The room was brimming with remarkable, inspiring, and accomplished individuals from diverse backgrounds. It was a pleasure to reconnect with old friends and make new acquaintances, including brilliant Black entrepreneurs, professionals, and allies. Being in that room filled me with a sense of empowerment that words can hardly describe. Beyond the delightful hospitality, beyond the casual mingling, the messages conveyed by Raphael Sofoluke were crystal clear: “Despite the systemic barriers and historical injustices, the Black community has displayed unparalleled resilience and determination in the face of adversity.” As allies, it's crucial that we pause and reflect on our motives for supporting this cause. Are our actions driven by a deep alignment with our humanistic values? Are we genuinely committed to standing up against injustice? To effect lasting, positive change within the Black community, we must ask ourselves these questions. While we strive to shed light on these injustices, let us never lose sight of the incredible brilliance and glory within the Black community. Let's celebrate the numerous contributions, advancements, and fruits that have been generously shared with the world. As we continue our collective journey towards justice and equality, may we always remember to acknowledge and honor the beauty and resilience that define the Black community. Together, we can make a meaningful and sustained positive impact. 🙌🏽🖤 #UKBlackBusinessWeek #BlackExcellence #InjusticeAwareness #UnityAndEmpowerment Aggie Yemurai Mutuma FCIPD Cecilia Mutuma-Nwaigbo MCIPD Jenny Garrett OBE Charmaine Lartey Tutu Popoola Sarah Benjamin Raphael Sofoluke

As we step into Black History Month, let's take a moment to reflect on the immeasurable contributions and achievements of the Black community. This month serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, innovation, and strength that have shaped our world. The stories of trailblazers who broke barriers and paved the way for generations - from inventors and leaders to artists and activists - were and always will be an integral part of our shared human narrative. By acknowledging the diversity of talents and perspectives, we enrich our workplaces, communities, and the global landscape. The stories of our ancestors contribute not only to cultural heritage but also serve as catalysts for positive societal and economic transformation. Studies consistently show that diverse and inclusive workplaces outperform their counterparts. By championing diversity in our teams and leadership, we foster innovation, creativity, and resilience. Embracing the talents and perspectives of the Black community isn't just the right thing to do; it's a strategy imperative for sustained organizational success. Beyond the workplace, supporting Black-owned businesses and initiatives is a powerful way to drive economic empowerment within communities. Investing in these enterprises contributes directly to job creation, economic development, and financial stability, creating a positive ripple effect for society at large. This #BlackHistoryMonth let's elevate the dialogue on the intersection of #BlackCulture, #SocialImpact, and #EconomicEmpowerment.

I had the incredible opportunity to attend the launch event for UK Black Business Week, and it was truly an honor to be invited. The timing couldn't have been more perfect, as it coincided with the beginning of Black History Month. The room was brimming with remarkable, inspiring, and accomplished individuals from diverse backgrounds. It was a pleasure to reconnect with old friends and make new acquaintances, including brilliant Black entrepreneurs, professionals, and allies. Being in that room filled me with a sense of empowerment that words can hardly describe. Beyond the delightful hospitality, beyond the casual mingling, the messages conveyed by Raphael Sofoluke were crystal clear: “Despite the systemic barriers and historical injustices, the Black community has displayed unparalleled resilience and determination in the face of adversity.” As allies, it's crucial that we pause and reflect on our motives for supporting this cause. Are our actions driven by a deep alignment with our humanistic values? Are we genuinely committed to standing up against injustice? To effect lasting, positive change within the Black community, we must ask ourselves these questions. While we strive to shed light on these injustices, let us never lose sight of the incredible brilliance and glory within the Black community. Let's celebrate the numerous contributions, advancements, and fruits that have been generously shared with the world. As we continue our collective journey towards justice and equality, may we always remember to acknowledge and honor the beauty and resilience that define the Black community. Together, we can make a meaningful and sustained positive impact. 🙌🏽🖤 #UKBlackBusinessWeek #BlackExcellence #InjusticeAwareness #UnityAndEmpowerment Aggie Yemurai Mutuma FCIPD Cecilia Mutuma-Nwaigbo MCIPD Jenny Garrett OBE Charmaine Lartey Tutu Popoola Sarah Benjamin Raphael Sofoluke

🌍📢 Let's Keep the Marketing Energy Going Beyond Black History Month! 🙌🏾 As we celebrate Black History Month, it's important to remember that our commitment to diversity and inclusion should extend far beyond these 29 days. Let's keep the same marketing energy for the other 11 months and continue supporting and uplifting the Black community throughout the year. 🤝 It's not just about going "BLACK" for a limited time and then forgetting about the community. We must strive for authentic and sustained inclusivity in our marketing efforts. 🌟 By embracing diversity and creating meaningful connections with all communities, we not only enrich our businesses but also contribute to a more equitable society. 🌈 So, let's avoid making a marketing mockery and instead, let's stand together and make a lasting impact. Let's actively seek out opportunities to collaborate with Black entrepreneurs, leaders, and organizations, amplifying their voices and supporting their businesses. 💪🏽 Remember, true progress requires consistent commitment. Let's keep pushing for change, promoting diversity, and celebrating the richness of every community beyond just one month. Together, we can foster an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. 🌟 #BlackHistoryMonth #DiversityandInclusion #InclusiveMarketing #BeyondBlackHistoryMonth #SupportBlackBusinesses #SocialResponsibility

5 ways to get the most out of Black History Month (and make sure it’s not tokenistic!) We’re almost two weeks into Black History Month in the UK, and we'd like to think the days of shallow BHM’s where all teams did was order some African or Caribbean cuisine for lunch🍴are behind us! But just in case it’s not, here Rita Serghis, our People and Development Consultant, shares 5 ways to get the most out of the remainder of the month: 1️⃣ What local events are happening? Check your council, library, voluntary services, and community centre websites and see what they have on them. 2️⃣ Research events and resources connected to your industry on race, racism, discrimination, and inclusion. There are probably people already working on transforming your industry; why not get involved? 🙌🏾 3️⃣ Check out what documentaries, films, and podcasts there are on Black British history on your streaming platforms 🎧. Most have curated collections.     4️⃣ Read some articles on tangible actions you can take to mitigate bias in your workplace 👀. 5️⃣ See what books have been written by black British authors in your local bookshop (including children’s books!). 💁🏾♀️ What have you learned so far this Black History Month? Let us know in the comments. We’d love to support your organisation with insightful resources. 👉🏾 Comment 'resources' and we’ll forward you some informative guides, films and authors to check out.    #WEMATTER #BlackHistoryMonth2023 #BHM

Back in 2020, nearly half of Black communication professionals reported never having received an internal promotion. That's shockingly dismaying! As a 100% BME-staffed agency, we encourage every Black PR professional to join the survey. Let's see what progress (hopefully) has been made, and most importantly, affect change!

The rush for diversity, particularly during Bristol Black History Month Magazine, can sometimes feel like a mere checkbox exercise. It's not enough for #PR, #Communications agencies and #Businesses to just talk about wanting diverse talent; true inclusivity requires building an environment where everyone feels valued year-round. The real risk brand reputation lies in running campaigns that miss the mark culturally and how it resonates with diverse audiences. But let's face it, achieving this is tough when the industry itself lacks diversity. Racial and gender diversity stats in PR are far from impressive, as per the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Bristol Creative Industries report. Yet, there's a silver lining: clients are increasingly pushing for #diversity and #inclusion in their projects, demanding tangible evidence in RFPs. So, the time has come for to step up and not just pay lip service but genuinely commit to diversity and inclusion. The untold stories soon emerge. So, be part of the content creation, distribution, and let's make the legacy and contributions of African and Caribbean communities a meaningful and lasting part of our shared narrative, every month of the year. Charmaine Simpson Zainab Khan Vanessa Maria Joy-Emma Martin Karendeep Kaur Lusanda Netshitenzhe Zoe Banks Gross Aisha Thomas Channel 4 Xavier Baker Wandile Mkhulise Professor Emmanuel Adukwu

Empowered Solutions is proud to present our Black History Essay Series titled "Exploring the Black Experience in the Workplace" This February, we invite you to join us on an enlightening journey through a specially curated collection of essays that illuminate the vast and vibrant narratives of Black history, with a lens focused on professional environments. We will traverse through historical epochs to highlight the formidable achievements, the unwavering resilience amidst adversity, and the persistent inequalities that Black professionals encounter. Each piece in our series is carefully crafted to unveil the myriad aspects of the Black experience in professional settings—from the trailblazers who shattered racial confines to the contemporary figures driving change within their fields. We will scrutinize the systemic obstacles that have impeded progress, applaud the victories and contributions of Black professionals in diverse realms, and provoke thoughtful discussions on ways to forge ahead. Our series aims to do more than just recount historical events; it aspires to recognize the invaluable contributions of Black professionals and to confront the ongoing inequities that impede equitable progress. This is an opportunity for enlightenment, understanding, and a pledge towards fostering workplaces that are truly inclusive and fair for all. We encourage you to engage with us as we pay tribute to the enduring legacy and achievements of Black professionals, extending beyond a single month and into our continual dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion. #BlackHistoryMonth #InclusiveWorkplace #DiversityAndInclusion

February is #BlackHistoryMonth. It’s a time to learn, celebrate, and elevate the Black leaders who built America. From early energy pioneers through the modern solar industry, Black changemakers and barrier breakers have made the solar and storage industry the equitable, dynamic and prosperous place that it is today. #BlackHistoryMonth is also a time to reflect. How are you engaging with Black experts and Black-owned businesses? How are you fostering a new generation of Black leaders and welcoming all Americans into the clean energy future? Last month, SEIA released the annual report on its DEIJ Certification Program, a platform that helps clean energy businesses and organizations improve their diversity, equity, inclusion and justice practices. Use this resource. Invest in equity. Recognize your responsibility to your company and your community. Learn, celebrate, elevate. 

Hey LinkedIn fam! 🌟 February marks the celebration of Black History Month, a time to honor the achievements, contributions, and resilience of Black people throughout history and in our communities today. This month serves as a powerful reminder to acknowledge and amplify Black voices, stories, and experiences. It's a time to reflect on the progress made, while also recognizing the ongoing work needed to achieve true equity and inclusion in all aspects of society. As we celebrate Black History Month, let's commit to: 💫 Amplifying Black Voices: Take the time to listen, learn, and amplify the voices and stories of Black individuals in your industry and community. 💫 Educating Ourselves: Educate yourself on the rich history and diverse contributions of Black people, both past and present. Challenge stereotypes and actively seek out diverse perspectives. 💫 Supporting Black-Owned Businesses: Show your support for Black entrepreneurs and businesses by intentionally seeking out and patronizing their products and services. 💫 Advocating for Equity: Advocate for policies and practices that promote equity and dismantle systemic barriers that disproportionately affect Black communities. 💫 Cultivating Inclusive Spaces: Create and foster inclusive environments where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed, regardless of race or background. Let's honor Black History Month not just in February, but every day, by actively working towards a more just, equitable, and inclusive future. Together, we can make a difference! ✊🏾✊🏿 #BlackHistoryMonth #AmplifyBlackVoices #EquityAndInclusion Brought to you by a black woman and her lovely lox! Nothing dreadful about them!