Reflections: Black History Month by Rae Evans

Black History Month is a time of celebration and reflection. We get a chance to celebrate the rich Black culture in Britain and recognise contributions but also an opportunity to commemorate, acknowledge, and celebrate the importance of Black individuals – past, present, and future. 

Black History Month allows us to debate and discuss the critical issues of our time, in addition to sharing our own experiences, misconceptions, and understandings. As an ED&I advocate and WILD board member, I really enjoy celebrating Black History Month. I had a fantastic opportunity to interview our Senior Product Manager, Wole. Wole candidly discussed his journey into tech, how he had combatted unconscious bias and how he feels we can influence and encourage more representation within the tech and digital industry. I also attended some thought-provoking events that highlighted positive black narratives.   

Axiologik were also honoured to host the BYP Network 'Saluting our Sisters' event, where individuals came together to celebrate their achievements within the Leeds Community and provide tips and insights for career progression. 

BYP Network was created in 2016 as a way to connect Black professionals and students from all over the world  with role model visibility, career opportunities and business support.  Leeds chapter lead, Patience, is a real role model. Alongside her role at Sky as a Site Reliability Engineer, Patience works tirelessly to organise events, mentor and be integral to the growth of the BYP network. After meeting Piatience and learning of her hard work ethic and ambitions to grow the BYP chapter, Rachel Mcelroy, Marketing Director, offered BYP a home at our Leeds HQ. Axiologik is proud to facilitate its events quarterly. There really are some amazing members, and we are glad we can facilitate a venue for them to allow them to grow, share insight and inspire others.  

Being able to be involved in all these initiatives showed me that Black History Month is essential to ensure a broader understanding of Black individuals from all walks of life. Encouraging and promoting diversity that can shape a better society for future generations and their leaders is key. 

Finally, it's refreshing to work for an organisation that embraces diversity and inclusion. Black History Month is important, yes. However, every month, we should celebrate the successes and contributions of Black talent.