Black Men in Education Archives

Why is silence not an option?

This special final episode of the Black Men in Education series ends with a powerful message highlighting the relevance of a diverse curriculum; the importance of a well-rounded education and why it is crucial to be anti-racist.

I sit down with Rt. Hon. Stuart Lawrence. Stuart is an author, motivational speaker and youth engagement specialist. He is the younger brother of Stephen Lawrence who was murdered in 1993 in an unprovoked racially motivated attack. Having worked in education for over 15 years, Stuart now works to equip young people with the mindset to believe and achieve what they want in life regardless of the challenges that they may face.

We discuss Stuart’s book, Silence is Not an Option, his thoughts on racism, the eradication of history and the importance of developing a rich, inclusive and diverse curriculum.

By being anti-racist, it means you’re actively going to be part of the solution to the problem.
Rt. Hon. Stuart Lawrence

Rt. Hon. Stuart Lawrence

Author, Motivational Speaker and Educator

Stuart Lawrence is the younger brother of Stephen Lawrence. After Stephen’s death, Stuart stayed in education and followed a creative path which focused on graphic design. Upon completing a course at the London College of Printing, he attended Northampton University to read Graphic Communication. Stuart worked with the Home Office and HMP Belmarsh before going on to become a teacher. Stuart’s teaching career spanned over 15 years, within a secondary school based in South-West London.

Stuart recently left this role to take on developing change within the education system and our society as a whole. Whilst working with these particular establishments which are in place in order to help aide change, rehabilitation and impart knowledge to our young people, Stuart has also been part of local communities for the last 20 years as a dedicated Football Coach and a football scout.

Since Stuart left the teaching profession full time, he has spent his time working with schools, presenting assemblies, working with youth groups/youth centres and sharing his story, experiences and presenting messages of hope & tolerance. His main goal is to equip young people with the mindset to believe and achieve what they want in life no matter the challenges many of them will unfortunately face due to social and economic disadvantages, ethnicity, religion, childhood trauma and so on. Through knowledge, self-worth, determination and unity Stuart believes our young people of today have the power to push for change within our society and make change.

Last year, the Multicultural Business & Community Champion (MBCC) Awards presented Stuart with the ‘Special Recognition’ Award for his dedication to anti-racism work following the murder of his brother Stephen.

Today, as well as working with youth, Stuart is an author and has released his first book, Silence is Not an Option.

He works with organisations and broadcasters to help them focus on areas of racism, internally and externally within our society. He has been a part of various panels, podcasts, 1 to 1 interview’s across ITV, The Sun, BBC London and Good Morning Britain to name a few.

Stephen Lawrence (13 September 1974 – 22 April 1993) was a young black man from Woolwich, South-East London. He was murdered in a racially motivated attack whilst waiting for a bus in Well Hall, Eltham on the evening of 22nd April 1993. His family’s tireless campaign for justice led to cultural shifts and changes in attitudes towards racism within British society, the law and the Metropolitan Police. This fight and their story are still as impactful and important today as it was in the 90s, whilst the fight for justice and change continues.

Photo credit: Simon Fredericks

Connect with Stuart:

Highlights:

09:23 On his book
19:38 Leadership and the truth
26:21 Bystanders, victims and perpetrators
41:40 The Black Curriculum
45:34 Rich, inclusive and diverse curriculum

Resources: Stephen Lawrence Day

Books:

Sway: Unravelling Unconscious Bias by Dr. Pragya Agarwal

Diversity by June Sarpong

“We as a family now are looking forward to the future and how the legacy of Stephen can be a driving force to help young people.
Rt. Hon. Stuart Lawrence

Have you left a review for Voicing Education – The Podcast?

Each and every review really does make a difference. If you are enjoying the episodes, I’d just like to ask for you to share your appreciation.

Please leave a review:

Head to voicingeducation-thepodcast/apple or search Voicing Education – The Podcast in Apple Podcasts. (This is easier to do on your phone.)
Scroll down and click the 5-star rating.
To show extra appreciation and support – please add a quick sentence (or two) to share what you enjoy about the show.

What’s in a S.M.I.L.E?

Black Men in Education

An informative conversation that allows for a deeper understanding of black boys. What’s in a S.M.I.L.E reveals the purpose and passion behind the radiant smiles captured by Kay Rufai at the end of his S.M.I.L.E-ing Boys Project.

An immersive artist, Kay shines a light on the importance of challenging stereotypes, raising aspirations and the teaching of masculinity in education. His works seeks to challenge the negative stereotypes of black boys.

Through his S.M.I.L.E-ing Boys Project, Kay Rufai empowers black boys to be accountable. He teaches them to recognise that there is more they can do to see a change in the outcomes of their school life, as well as their everyday life.

We discuss how Kay teaches an understanding of mindset, masculinity and motivation.

Recognising that we can never rid ourselves of any stereotypes and perceptions. We have to consistently be conscious about, and be aware of how these stereotypes exhibit themselves in our lives, and to challenge them when we recognise them.

Kay Rufai

Founder of S.M.I.L.E-ing Boys Project

Kay Rufai is an immersive artist, photographer, poet, film-maker, mental health researcher and playwright. He actively supports and advocates for the understanding of black boys.

The S.M.I.L.E-ing Boys Project was born out of research funded by The Wellcome Trust & The Arts Council around well-being for BAME boys in London. The project was created following the governments reactionary approach to the increase in youth stabbings. The tougher criminalisation of youth, including more stop and search, inspired Kay to explore a public health approach to the situation.

S.M.I.L.E which stands for (Send Me Inspiring Loving Energy) is what Kay’s work embodies. Lasting 8 weeks, his project empowers young black boys to develop their mindset, motivation and understanding of masculinity, whilst equipping them with essential tools to maintain their mental wellbeing.

Over the past few years, Kay’s work has spanned countries including the UK, USA, Ethiopia, Bhutan, Germany, Scandinavia, Mexico, Nigeria and Colombia.

His work has been featured in The Guardian, The BBC, The Voice and other news outlets.

Kay Rufai delivers powerful CPD for teachers within the educational sector. He also regularly delivers keynote speeches on Diversity & Inclusion.

www.universoulartist.com

Highlights:

07:39 S.M.I.L.E-ing Boys Project
15:39 Diversity and disconnect
27:15 Black boys, vulnerability and stereotypes

Short film by Kay Rufai Am I Next?

Books:

Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty
The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity and Love by Bell Hooks

Have you left a review for Voicing Education – The Podcast?

Each and every review really does make a difference. If you are enjoying the episodes, I’d just like to ask for you to share your appreciation.

Please leave a review:

Head to voicingeducation-thepodcast/apple or search Voicing Education – The Podcast in Apple Podcasts. (This is easier to do on your phone.)
Scroll down and click the 5-star rating.
To show extra appreciation and support – please add a quick sentence (or two) to share what you enjoy about the show.

Why is happiness priceless?

Black Men in Education, Personal Development, Wellbeing

Action Jackson is an award-winning motivational speaker, author and coach. Also known as the UK Ambassador for Happiness, Action Jackson shares his wisdom and explains how happiness can impact leadership.

In this conversation, Action Jackson discusses the importance of inspiring others, being intentional and how he uses humour to work his magic on others.

Action has been running motivational workshops in schools for over 20 years; a service he (and his team) offer within his company Fixup Seminars.

When you listen to Action speak his infectious energy and passion absorbs you. He truly aims to live by example by embracing all life has to offer whilst empowering people to wake up happy and achieve. Authenticity is key!

Leadership is about influence…the way I lead people is by loving them…let me give with what I want to receive. Let me give the support I want to have.

Action Jackson

Motivational Speaker | Author |Coach |

For 25 years, Action Jackson has been empowering others through his motivational talks and workshops. He entered the world of education and empowerment in 2001 whilst he was studying at university. It is there where Action developed a passion for public speaking, supporting others with workshops on goal-setting and procrastination. Subsequently, Action founded Fixupseminars.co.uk, with the mission of empowering students and teachers across the UK.

As an award- winning motivational speaker and coach, Action has taken his infectious energy across the globe. He is also the author of Happy School 365: Action Jackson’s guide to motivating learners. His book serves as a guide for educators and parents who aim to develop a generation that is happy, healthy and successful.

Action combines entertainment, wisdom and authenticity to inspire others to feel great about themselves and their capabilities. He uplifts people so they are ready to take action and achieve.

Highlights:

13:15 Commander and master
16:42 Connecting before correcting
23:52 Caring and compassion
25:30 Leading with love

Resources:

21 Videos on How to Motivate Learners

Book: Happy School 365: Action Jackson’s guide to motivating learners by Action Jackson

Have you left a review for Voicing Education – The Podcast?

Each and every review really does make a difference. If you are enjoying the episodes, I’d just like to ask for you to share your appreciation.

Please leave a review:

Head to voicingeducation-thepodcast/apple or search Voicing Education – The Podcast in Apple Podcasts. (This is easier to do on your phone.)
Scroll down and click the 5-star rating.
To show extra appreciation and support – please add a quick sentence (or two) to share what you enjoy about the show.

How important is Character Education?

Black Men in Education

Adrian McLean discusses character education, values and leadership. As explained in conversation, Adrian states that character is ‘caught’. Therefore as educators and leaders it is crucial that we are clear on our own values.

An experienced Senior Leader, Adrian has a successful history of school improvement.

It is clear that Adrian is values driven. Reference is made to his grandad’s sayings, which highlights that language has a profound impact on an individual. It is crucial in character education.

I see character education as diversity and diversity as character…to have true diversity you have to have lots of different characters around the table.

Adrian McLean

Trust Leader, Speaker and Associate Coach

Adrian is an advocate for Character Education and Diversity & Inclusion. He has a wealth of experience and expertise in driving school improvement in the curriculum and teaching and learning. As a Senior Leader leader in five schools, Adrian has faced unique challenges in each situation.

He is a values driven, transformational leader who believes passionately in making a difference and changing the lives of the young people and the community whom he serves.

An experienced Change Manager, Adrian is comfortable engaging with all stakeholders and delivering appropriate activities to ensure efficient and effective outcomes. Resilience, integrity, courage and honesty are core values which he displays in his daily work.

Adrian holds his NPQH and a Masters in Character Education.

Website: www.micarlib.com

Connect with Adrian:

Learning points:

09:22 Practical Wisdom
14:27 Understanding our own core values
21:34 Character Education v Personal Development
35:20 Character Education and Diversity
45:15 Being authentic

Books:

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

The 5 Levels of Leadership: Proven Steps to Maximise Your Potential by John C. Maxwell

Have you left a review for Voicing Education – The Podcast?

Each and every review really does make a difference. If you are enjoying the episodes, I’d just like to ask for you to share your appreciation.

Please leave a review:

Head to voicingeducation-thepodcast/apple or search Voicing Education – The Podcast in Apple Podcasts. (This is easier to do on your phone.)
Scroll down and click the 5-star rating.
To show extra appreciation and support – please add a quick sentence (or two) to share what you enjoy about the show.

What type of leader do you choose to be?

Black Men in Education

James Aidoo is an inspiring speaker who captures audiences with his lyrical storytelling. In our conversation, James highlights the importance of purpose, support and consciously choosing the type of leader you want to be.

Having won multiple awards as a Youth Practitioner, James’ background in community engagement, team culture and leadership development has enabled him to add significant value to others.

Educate, equip and inspire. His company Innerscope, offers coaching for pupils and staff. James teaches leaders to understand their leadership voice and how to use it effectively within a team.

James the type of leader who inspires others through service. There is no doubt that you will find inspiration in his words.

Leadership and service are synonymous.

James Aidoo

Keynote Speaker | Executive Coach | Director

James Aidoo founded Innerscope in 2013, a coaching company that exists to inspire learners and equip leaders so that today’s leaders execute and tomorrow’s leaders are excellent.

With an emphasis on applied emotional intelligence, Innerscope has worked with students and staff teams within the education sector and beyond through keynotes, coaching and training. His client base is comprised of organisations like Pearson Edexcel, Adobe, and Warner Music Group.

His background as a multi award-winning Youth practitioner means that James has extensive experience in tackling some of the most complex issues related to youth and community engagement as well as team culture and leadership development for staff teams.

Highlights:

03:42 Emotional intelligence
23:00 Leadership voice
24:42 Wellbeing

Resources:

Aspiring Heads – Ethan and Nathan Bernard
Diana Osagie
Jaz Ampaw-Farr

Book: Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman

Have you left a review for Voicing Education – The Podcast?

Each and every review really does make a difference. If you are enjoying the episodes, I’d just like to ask for you to share your appreciation.

Please leave a review:

Head to voicingeducation-thepodcast/apple or search Voicing Education – The Podcast in Apple Podcasts. (This is easier to do on your phone.)
Scroll down and click the 5-star rating.
To show extra appreciation and support – please add a quick sentence (or two) to share what you enjoy about the show.

What has being a teacher taught you?

Black Men in Education

Alongside being a teacher, Richard holds many roles within the secondary school where he works. Within each one he is consciously being a great role model for pupils.

In this conversation, he speaks openly about his approach to work. He explains how he strikes a balance between meeting both the school and his personal objectives.

Richard also discusses the importance of the black curriculum, the significance of educators having an awareness of cultural differences and his thoughts on black representation within school leadership.

This interviews offers a perspective into the additional responsibilities a black male teacher faces in daily school life.

The changes I’d like to see are more ethnic progression into senior leadership roles…seeing more black head teachers. The percentage is very low (1%) in the UK.

Richard

Black Curriculum Coordinator & Head of Enterprise and Entrepreneurship

Richard works in an outstanding and dynamic secondary school as a teacher, mentor, coordinator and football team leader.

With focus and determination to make a difference in young people’s lives, he works to develop pupils’ ambition and self-belief.

His energy and purpose are felt by his pupils and colleagues alike.

Highlights:

11:07 Prioritising
16:50 Understanding culture
20:40 Living with stereotypes

Resources:

Book: Eat That Frog: Get More Of The Important Things Done Today by Brian Tracy

Article: ‘There is absolutely systemic racism’: BAME headteachers share their views

Have you left a review for Voicing Education – The Podcast?

Each and every review really does make a difference. If you are enjoying the episodes, I’d just like to ask for you to share your appreciation.

Please leave a review:

Head to voicingeducation-thepodcast/apple or search Voicing Education – The Podcast in Apple Podcasts. (This is easier to do on your phone.)
Scroll down and click the 5-star rating.
To show extra appreciation and support – please add a quick sentence (or two) to share what you enjoy about the show.