Black History Month – Who’s Your Inspiration?

To celebrate Black History Month, College podcast In the News shared its premiere episode this month to celebrate Black history in the UK and discuss which Black historical figures inspire them.

Hosted by Danny Lee (Sport) and Dannii Donovan (Safeguarding), the new podcast series got off to a strong start with the question of ‘do you have an inspiring black role model?’, and undertook interviews with experts and individuals who have made history.

We’re keen to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our Black alumni and share the names of some outstanding former learners who might inspire you.

Jude Bellingham
Record breaking Real Madrid midfielder graduated from Loughborough College in 2021 with a BTEC Level 3 Certificate in Sport. The international superstar has long supported The Mustard Seed Project, a charity providing schooling in Kenya, as well as donating to women and children’s sanctuary charities, and acting as an ambassador for McDonald’s Fun Football, providing free, inclusive football coaching for children across the UK. Having broken numerous records for former club Borussia Dortmund and the England national team, Jude is a shining example of excellence on and off the pitch.

Sharon Amobi
Space Engineering graduate Sharon was recognised as part of the 2023 Space Engineering Awards, held earlier this year. Sharon not only received her certificate of completion for her course, but was awarded a prestigious plaque for her outstanding achievement and ability. As part of the UK’s first full-time Post-16 course for students in Space Engineering, Sharon is one of a few learners to be recognised for her studies.

Sharnell and Chanel Smith
Mother and daughter duo, Sharnell and Chanel celebrated outstanding achievements in education last year, having both passed their GCSEs together. Sharnell juggled work with family life and studying to earn grade 4s in both English and Maths GCSE. Having returned to Loughborough College in 2020, Sharnell felt inspired to get her qualifications, sharing at the time, “You should never give up…I only ever wanted to come back to Loughborough College, it’s a great place to learn.” After passing her exams, Sharnell was able to start on her ambition to become an accountant.

Thomas Young MBE
Paralympic gold medallist and triple European champion Thomas was awarded an MBE in last year’s Queen’s New Year’s Honours for services to sport. Having won gold in Tokyo 2020, Thomas was also crowned British Male Para Athlete of the Year in 2021, and shortlisted for Association of College’s Sport Awards last year. A champion for Superhero Series – the UK’s only disability sport series – as well as a charity ambassador for Childhood Tumour Trust, Thomas has remained an inspiration of commitment and dedication.

Mary Cholhok
Ugandan national netball player Mary Cholhok moved to the UK in 2019 and has played a crucial part in the success of Netball Super League squad, Loughborough Lightning, supporting the team to the NSL title earlier this year. Named as the season’s top goal scorer, Mary tallied a staggering 908 goals over 19 appearances during the tournament. Mary has been vocal about her role as both a mother and sportswoman, as well as dedicating time to her studies. An inspiration for international sportswomen, having overcome obstacles to achieve outstanding success in her field.

Images courtesy of: imagecomms