Speakers share their own lived experiences as part of Black History Month at West Suffolk College event in Bury St Edmunds

Inspirational speakers took to the stage in Bury St Edmunds to share their experiences as part of Black History Month.

The event at the University Professional Development Centre heard talks by Franstine Jones, the first female president of the National Black Police Association, and African Families in the UK Community Ambassadors including Godwin Daudu.

Franstine, who is an equality and diversity consultant working for her own business, said: “I think Black History Month is important because I didn’t know about my history and I am 61.

“I talked about how from my own lived experiences that it’s really important that education helped me reclaim my narrative about the positive contributions that black people have made to Great Britain.”

Marcus Mayinbi, Bernard Nana Adu Gyebi and Godwin Dauba spoke on behalf of African Families in the UK.

Godwin talked about black contributions to medicine, technology and development. He added: “Black history isn’t just black history - it’s world history.”

The event brought together students and staff across Eastern Education Group (EEG), which runs West Suffolk College, to celebrate Black History Month.

Polly Robertson, an equality, diversity and inclusion lead who works for EEG and helped set up the event, said: “We were honoured to welcome guests who spoke around the theme of ‘reclaiming narratives’.

“At EEG, our participation in Black History Month is important, as it allows us to recognise the outstanding contributions of the black community to our history and society.

“Celebrating Black History shouldn’t be limited to October - it should be integrated into our curriculum and discussions year-round.

“I think the key message to take from this event is that it’s important to listen to others, challenge our biases and stay open to learning and growing together every day.”

Sam Hardy is studying on a counselling degree programme with University Studies at West Suffolk College, at the University and Professional Development Centre.

He said: “We look at the equality act, ethical concerns and inclusivity during my course – and understanding and knowledge of others is huge - so attending the talks helped me with my course.

“On a more general level, listening to other people’s experiences and challenges helps me question and challenge my own beliefs.”