To celebrate Black History Month the National Assembly for Wales Black Minority Ethnic (BME) staff Network would like to share the people that have been their role models and who have inspired them – their ‘BME Heroes’.
Muhammad Ali – A former professional boxer
“A devout Muslim, who never gave up despite the challenges he faced as a black man, especially in the 1960’s and 1970’s. He has encouraged people to respect and better understand one another and to strive to be the best that they can. He epitomises how sports can be used to change social values.”
Stephen K. Amos – A stand-up comedian
“For his work with raising the profile of homosexuality, in his stand up performances, like the revealing solo show ‘All of Me’, at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, in which he publicly acknowledged his own homosexuality to his audience for the first time.”
Tracy Chapman – A singer-songwriter
“Lyrically her songs, such as ‘Talkin’ ‘bout a revolution’ and ‘Fast Car’, highlight the importance of speaking up against injustice and bring awareness to the struggles of poverty.”
Nelson Mandela – Former President of South Africa
“A humble leader who preached peace and forgave the people who put him into isolation for 27 years, and for leading all South Africans though a spirit of forgiveness and harmony. If I could be half the person he is I would be the happiest person.”
Pranab Mukherjee – Current President of India
“Because of the work he has done with poor people. He is an ambassador for the poor.”
Barack Obama – Current President of the United States
“As a BME person who has risen to arguably one of the most powerful positions in the world, you see that things are changing and that gives you hope. He is a great icon as every time you see him, you see a black man who is articulate and conducts himself well, even in the face of provocation.”
Michelle Obama – First Lady of the United State, lawyer, writer, big charity worker
“She is an incredible lady and fabulous human being, for many reasons, including her commitment in the promotion of a healthy nutrition and the right to women’s education.”
Oprah Winfrey – Media proprietor, talk show host, actress, producer, and philanthropist
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“She is an example of triumph over diversity. Not only is she a real rags to riches story, but on reaching the top of her field she has used her position to make a difference, using her influence and success to inspire, educate and empower people of all walks of life all over the world.”
Stevie Wonder – Musician
“A child prodigy. Naturally gifted and really talented, he taught himself to begin playing instruments at the age 4. He overcome difficulties and adversity to rise to the top of his profession and remained relevant and at the top of his game all of his working life.”
Malala Yousafzai – Pakistani activist for female education and the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate
“A strong modern role model. After her traumatic experience, her courage and determination to make and seek change for women in all parts of the world – so that they can have an education- really stands out in my mind. She’s an incredibly brave woman with an incredible story. At only 18, she has already achieved so much and is set to accomplish so much more with her endeavours.”
Leymah Gbowee – Liberian anti-war and women’s rights leader, joint Noble Peace Prize winner in 2011
“An amazing individual with a colourful life and a truly inspiring person who has shown that with conviction and determination, anything can happen!”
If you are interested in finding out more about our BME staff network contact Raz Roap the Chair of the BME staff Network.
Plan to visit the Assembly? Check out our website or contact us by phone, on 0300 200 6565, or email us at contact@assembly.wales.
To find out more about the events taking place across Wales visit the Black History Month Wales website.
