London, UK – As Black History Month 2024 is observed, CEO and Founder of Urban Synergy, Leila Thomas, is deeply moved by this year’s theme of reclaiming narratives.
Thomas states, “For me, it resonates with a profound truth: the stories we tell about our history, past and present, how we see the world, and more importantly, how we see our place in it.”
The organization’s campaign on social media highlights new narratives and stand-out moments from role models, inspiring individuals to be empowered by them. As we celebrate this month, it is crucial to tell new stories that connect us with our past while inspiring the next generation of young Black leaders to carve out their own future.
This mission was made clear to Thomas during a recent event in Ypres, Belgium, to honor the fallen soldiers of the British West Indies Regiment (BWIR). The pilgrimage, organized by the British West India Regiments Heritage Trust (BWIRHT), commemorated the contributions of thousands of West Indian soldiers who fought bravely in World War I, many of whom never returned home.
Standing at the memorials with Lewisham Mayor Brenda Dacres, surrounded by veterans dressed with dignity and respect, Thomas felt an overwhelming sense of generational connection. She states, “It was a stark reminder of the sacrifices these men made, not just for freedom, but for the legacy they left behind—a legacy that we must reclaim and pass on to future generations.”
During Black History Month, Thomas reflected on how much young people today need heroes like these. She emphasizes the need for real role models, not just the “admittedly brilliant footballers or influencers they see in the media,” but individuals who stand for something larger than themselves.
“These veterans, and many others like them, represent strength, resilience, and commitment to a cause greater than personal fame or wealth. They are the stories we need to be telling more often,” says Thomas.
Urban Synergy, a charity focused on empowering young people to thrive in underrepresented fields such as STEM or STEAM (science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics), has seen success in creating new narratives. One such success story is Angel, an 18-year-old software engineer working in the heart of Canary Wharf.
Thomas states, “Angel’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. Through our mentoring program, she was able to unlock her full potential and break through the barriers that often stand in the way of young Black girls pursuing careers in technology.”
Angel’s story is just one example of the organization’s commitment to creating new narratives and empowering young people. Thomas emphasizes the need for more everyday heroes like Angel and the veterans of the British West Indies Regiment, who represent a sense of connection to our history and a source of pride in our heritage.
“This Black History Month, let’s show our young people that they come from a lineage of strength, courage, and brilliance. When they understand this, they thrive. They no longer feel limited by stereotypes or systemic barriers, but empowered to rise above them,” says Thomas.
She calls on all individuals to look around and recognize the heroes in their own communities, celebrating the young people working hard to succeed, the mentors who guide them, and the ancestors who paved the way. Thomas urges individuals not to wait for history books to validate their contributions, but to start telling their stories now.
Urban Synergy is proud to play a role in reclaiming these narratives, fostering generational connections, and helping young people see that they are part of something much bigger than themselves. Thomas states, “We believe in the power of mentorship, the power of community, and the power of our collective history to inspire future generations.”
As we move forward, it is crucial to ensure that the next generation of Black leaders knows not only the famous faces but also the unsung heroes who helped build the world they now have the opportunity to shape. In doing so, we will create a future that reflects the full depth and richness of our past.
Thomas concludes, “Thank you to all our role models who inspire young people, and can be seen on our Black History Month Campaign, and to you for joining us on this journey.”
To find out more about partnering with Urban Synergy, visit their website or contact them via their website.
About Urban Synergy:
Urban Synergy is an award-winning early intervention mentoring charity that aims to empower young people from underrepresented backgrounds to reach their full potential. Through a combination of mentoring, role model seminars, and work experience opportunities, Urban Synergy provides the support and skills necessary for the next generation to thrive in today’s competitive environment. Since its inception, Urban Synergy has positively impacted the lives of thousands of students, thanks to the dedication of volunteer mentors and corporate partners.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.