Students packed the college theatre to hear Paul Muhammad, West Thames College Lecturer in Media, deliver a powerful and engaging Black History Month talk, exploring the rich history, innovation and achievements of Black people that are often overlooked in mainstream education. From the Nubian Empire and the Moors to Black British history, the session challenged stereotypes and encouraged students to think more deeply about the stories behind the history they learn.
Students found the talk to be instpirational. One student, Ahmos, said: "I found the talk to be helpful as it gave me a deeper understanding of what history is about and how we are only shown main parts of that history and not the full story. I found the talk to be engaging and enjoyable to watch. In my honest opinion, I would recommend other students to listen to what had been said as we do not learn about Black history and we all should be aware of it since we use things that was invented by many Black people."
Students were highly engaged throughout, listening intently, asking thoughtful questions and reflecting on the importance of understanding history from a broader perspective. The talk empowered students to recognise the power of words, identity and representation while celebrating the contributions of Black communities across centuries.
Paul Muhammad said: "I give this talk every year because, while it is important to celebrate Black culture, it is equally vital to address the gaps in our understanding of the human story. By highlighting the inspiring stories of influential individuals and remarkable events that are often overlooked by mainstream media, we can recognise and celebrate the significant contributions Black people have made to the world throughout history. Ultimately, my aim is to educate and inspire students to help build a better, more inclusive world."
As Black History Month continues, the college remains committed to creating opportunities for students to learn from diverse voices and perspectives that educate, inspire and empower.
