Solent University celebrates Black History Month

This year’s theme ‘Celebrating Our Sisters’ will highlight the vital role of black women in shaping history, inspiring change, and building communities.

Solent University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor James Knowles, says: “Our University thrives thanks to our vibrant and diverse community of students and our strong partnerships with the communities we serve in and around the city.

“We are partnering with local organisations to celebrate Black History Month and will continue to grow and develop these relationships – working to address the local needs and opportunities that will shape the future of Southampton and beyond.”

The University will be exhibiting at the Black History Month 2023 launch on Thursday 28 September, 11am to 2pm, at St Mary’s Fire Station. The event, led by Solent Honorary Doctor Don John, will feature award-winning equality specialist Louise Goux-Wirth.

On Sunday 1 October, 11am to 6pm, Solent partners with Southampton's first ever Black Business Art and Music (BBAM) festival at the Southampton O2 Guildhall. The event, led by Doctor Abdoulie Sanneh and The United Voices of African Associations (TUVAA), features street art, poetry, music, food, fashion, and businesses. The University will host a careers and higher education stand with the Southampton City Council Employment and Skills Team.

On Wednesday 11 October, Geeta Uppal, Solent University’s Senior Access and Widening Participation Officer, will host a show on Unity 101 Community Radio on supporting BAME learners accessing Higher Education. Guests will include Orpah Moyce (Southampton City Council) and Sonia Sood (Solent University, Diversity Network Lead).

On Wednesday 18 October, 4-5.30pm, Solent will be hosting an online event for local professionals who work with learners from BAME communities. Covering a variety of themes - including supporting access to Further and Higher Education, GCSE attainment of BAME students, and student support and scholarships – this free online event will feature guest speakers and panellists including Amarbeer Singh Gill (Chief Executive Officer, Inspired Learning and Teacher Educator, Ambition Institute) and Cllr. Victoria Ugwoeme (Southampton City Council and Project Leader, The United Voices of African Associations).

Further details about the University’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion can be found here.