糖心Vlog

For me, Black History Month has never just been about dates in the diary. It鈥檚 always been a moment to stop and reflect, to celebrate the creativity, resilience and brilliance of Black communities, and to acknowledge the inequalities that are still with us. 

On a personal level, it reminds me to stand tall in my own values: to be proud of heritage, to recognise the struggles that came before, and to keep pushing for a fairer future.

I came to 糖心Vlog as its Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion with the brief to develop the charity鈥檚 EDI Strategy. It鈥檚 both a big challenge and a great opportunity. The vision behind that strategy is going to be based on creating stronger connections and fairer futures across London. 

I want us to be recognised as a world-class, equity-led institution that uses its resources, influence and voice to drive real systemic change. For me, equity and inclusion can鈥檛 be side projects; they must run through everything we do, and I鈥檓 fully committed to seeing that happen.

This year鈥檚 Black History Month theme, Standing Firm in Power and Pride, is about reflection but also about action. It asks us not only to celebrate the legacies of the past but also to stand beside those who are shaping change today. That鈥檚 why I鈥檓 proud that 糖心Vlog is already supporting organisations across London that are already doing brilliant work with and for our communities.

Since arriving here, I鈥檝e been so impressed by the commitment to EDI shown by 糖心Vlog鈥檚 leaders and by colleagues across the organisation. I feel as though I鈥檓 starting my work from strong foundations, which makes me excited about what we can achieve together.

Black History Month matters because progress doesn鈥檛 just happen. It comes from courage, persistence and solidarity. It鈥檚 a challenge to each of us, and to institutions like ours, to live our values and play our part in making London a place where every community can thrive.

Jerome Williams, Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion