Norma Molla (MBPsS, MSc)’s Post

How is your organisation marking Black History Month 2024?   This year’s theme is Reclaiming Narratives, focusing on correcting inaccuracies in Black history and shining a light on untold, hidden and mistold stories.   While this is something we should not limit to one month of the year, Black History Month 2024 presents organisations across the country with a unique opportunity to: - Unite under a common theme to celebrate and amplify Black stories and voices. - Explore the modern challenges Black employees face both within and outside the workplace. - Consider ways in which we can overcome these challenges.    If you would like to use this opportunity in your organisation, business psychologist Norma Molla (MBPsS, MSc) has some limited availability in October to deliver Let’s Talk About Race sessions.   Session content includes: - An introduction to key concepts and constructs such as race, the history of race and racial hierarchy - How racism has evolved, what modern racism looks like and how it impacts global majority employees - Practical tools to empower attendees to handle difficult and challenging conversations relating to race at work   Let’s Talk About Race can be delivered in person or online and as a workshop, webinar, speech or panel discussion, depending on your needs and audience. Please get in touch with us via info@pearnkandola.com for more information. #BlackHistoryMonth #ReclaimingNarratives #LetsTalkAboutRace #DEI #Inclusion

💡 As early as 1998, social psychologists began to delve into implicit biases—those underlying, often "unconscious" beliefs we all hold. But there was still a question: Could these biases be intentionally reshaped? ⏪️ In 2001, a pivotal study by Dasgupta and Greenwald tackled this question. They hypothesized that implicit anti-Black bias partly stemmed from repeated exposure to negative portrayals of Black people and positive portrayals of White people. By reversing this pattern—highlighting positive Black role models like Martin Luther King Jr. and Michael Jordan, alongside less idealized White figures—they observed a significant reduction in participants' anti-Black bias. 🔎 This research highlights how transformative Black History Month can be. By celebrating and recognizing influential Black figures, we’re not just honouring them, we’re actively challenging and reshaping our OWN perspectives. When we honour a Black CEO, artist, or cultural icon, the shift happens in us too. As Black History Month draws to a close in the UK, remember that consistently showcasing Black achievement throughout the year remains essential in our journey to reduce bias and foster a more inclusive society. #blackhistorymonth #BlackHistoryMonth2024 #ReclaimingNarratives #BHM2024 #diversity #dei #honordex #inclusion #equalitygroup #diversityandinclusion #inclusiveleadership #futureofwork #womenintech #inclusionmatters #womensleadership #allyship #humanrights #accessibility #responsibleinvesting #corporateresponsibility #socialimpact #sustainablefinance #sdgs #sustainablegrowth #investmentmanagement #assetmanagement #impactthatmatters

Dear Black Editors, As we observe Black History Month, it’s crucial to highlight Black creatives, brands, founders, trailblazers, and our rich culture during this season and also to make it a year-round commitment. The influence of Black culture is seen and felt across industries, from fashion and beauty to tech and media, yet these contributions are often underrepresented or overlooked. By consistently telling these stories and sharing the remarkable achievements of Black visionaries, we ensure that our history is not just confined to a single month. It is a reminder of our continuous impact and the importance of celebrating our voices and talents every day. Representation matters, and our work as editors holds power. We have the ability to inform, educate, and inspire not only our community but also the world at large. Let’s use our platforms to create a lasting narrative that honors the past while shaping the future. #VisonariesfashioningAfrica #VFAGLOBAL #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackExcellence #RepresentationMatters #CulturalHeritage #BlackCreatives #Trailblazers #Empowerment

🌟 Reclaiming the Narrative: Perspectives from Allies and Black Leaders 🌟 In a world where stories shape our understanding and empathy, it is crucial to ensure that every voice is heard and valued, and that the stories we share, hear and believe, are complete and true. This article is based on a chat that I was fortunate to have with Pam Lindsay-Dunn and Jeff Taylor (two exec sponsors of The Black Network) and Prim Raymond and Clinton Cooper (our two Deputy Co-Chairs or The Black Network). I'm sharing it because it delves into the importance of allyship and the power of reclaiming narratives, not just during Black History Month but all year round. 🔍 TL/DR and key takeaways: Understanding the Past: Highlights the historical context of racial stereotypes and the ongoing impact of these narratives on the Black community. The Role of Allies: Emphasises the vital role allies play in advocating for fairness, challenging outdated notions, and supporting the voices within marginalised communities. Empowerment Through Storytelling: By reclaiming the narrative, we can inspire courage, challenge stereotypes, and reshape worldviews for future generations. 💬 Why It Matters: Reclaiming narratives is not just about correcting the past; it is about building a more inclusive and equitable future. We have the power to amplify these stories, educate ourselves, and foster environments where diversity and inclusion thrive. Thanks Pam, Prim, Clinton and Jeff for letting me share our chat! 🌍✨ Let's commit to being proactive and making a difference, one story at a time. 🌍✨ 📖 Read the full article to explore how you can be a part of this transformative journey: https://lnkd.in/ehd5ZAkg

“Black History is More Than a Month: Let’s Make Inclusivity a Year-Round Commitment” As Black History Month begins, it’s essential to reflect on how young people engage with its significance. For many, their own experiences with exclusion and inequality can make it difficult to fully appreciate the impact of Black history. But Black history isn’t something to acknowledge for just one month—it’s an integral part of our shared history that should be celebrated year-round. Everyone has a role to play in fostering inclusivity, learning, and creating spaces where ALL voices are heard and valued. Let’s commit to supporting young people in their journey of understanding and appreciating this important legacy, while making inclusivity a daily practice, not just a monthly reminder. #BlackHistoryMonth #Inclusivity #SharedHistory #EmpowerTheYouth

You don't get to use Black History Month to *look* anti-racist. If you're not Black, then Black History Month should be an opportunity to: • Centre Blackness White and non-Black people of the Global Majority, this should apply all year round. Centring Blackness in everything we do. Because anti-Black racism runs deep. This month can act as a shared rallying point. • Share concrete progress Share the achievements you’ve made on tackling racism over the past year, like massively reducing racial pay disparities in your organisations. (Because you’re working on that, aren’t you?) • Spotlight Black talent Collaborate with Black creators in your sector. Pay them well. And notice if you're only collaborating with, hiring, supporting and celebrating *some* Black folks. You know what I mean, right? The way some brands consistently collaborate with light-skinned Black folks with Eurocentric features? There's no place for colourism. • Focus on Black history Shed light on stories that white people often forget/ignore. Be mindful: a lot of history, when told by white people, takes place in the passive voice. History books speak of “people who were enslaved.” Okay, but who *did* the enslaving? (By calling someone a “slave” we legitimise the idea of slavery. Historians tend to talk about ”enslaved people”, which gets closer to the truth.) Most importantly: do these things all year round. “We can all do little things consistently that have real impact. Stay curious, and avoid the debate of who’s right, who’s wrong and who gets to maintain innocence. (…) Apologise, take responsibility and make change.” - Nova Reid. (Buy Nova's book The Good Ally, if you haven't already: https://lnkd.in/dtZyDJ9T) Image description: a burnt orange background with an off-white text box that says: “Black History Month”. Large, off-white text says: “Which stories are you telling?” - beneath, smaller text reads: “Tales of suffering, with no space for Black joy? Whitewashed tales that make past injustice palatable? Or none at all?” #BlackHistoryMonth

October is Black History Month, and the inspiring theme for 2024 is ‘Reclaiming Narratives’. The impetus for this theme is that “the history of Black communities has been told through lenses that often misrepresent, oversimplify, or entirely overlook the rich and diverse experiences of those who lived it”. ‘Reclaiming Narratives’ 2024 is all about reclaiming, retelling and celebrating those stories that matter the most.   Trailblazers Mentoring strongly believes in diversity and inclusivity in all areas of life and champions voices and experiences that have been marginalised by society. As we celebrate Black History Month this October, let’s reflect on the importance of diversity, inclusivity, and the rich history that shapes the UK. #BlackHistoryMonth2024 #ReclaimingNarratives #TrailblazersMentoring #Trailblazers #Diversity #Inclusivity

As we enter Black History Month, let’s remember that Black Lives Matter every day of the year, not just when it's a trending topic in political discourse. I was incredibly proud of Wales for introducing the Anti-Racism Action Plan 2030 and witnessing so much progress being made. But where has the allyship gone? Where has the funding and support disappeared to? I will always be honest, 2024 has been disheartening. One significant issue I've observed is with intersectionality. While it's crucial to see the whole person, I feel that since race is a more difficult and uncomfortable conversation, it’s often the last issue tackled. Race, as a social construct, must be dismantled. We haven't had nearly enough time or effort dedicated to meaningful change. I've seen far too many exhibitions and events, but not enough disruption of the current systems. Where is the new media that truly represents us? Where are the business support systems that understand us? Meeting equity targets through existing agencies isn't enough—it overlooks the unique needs required to achieve true equity. We want the opportunity to create our own structures and infrastructures that truly represent diversity. Inclusion alone isn’t sufficient—when you break down that word, it’s about being 'included' by someone else which exposes the dominant power structures. How is that OK? We need to be REAL, and use the word INFUSION! Which recognises that we cannot function independently. Society is an infusion of diverse humans, perspectives, strengths and contributions. No more inclusion, it actually reinforces the power dynamics. BHM informs us all that, HIS-TORY is a lie! #reclaimingthenarratives There has been too much talk and not enough sustainable action—we must do better! We need more time, IF you are a genuine ally - Will you be here in November? Dr Lawrence Hoo D.Litt #cargomovement

🌟 Reflecting on Black History Month: Reclaiming Narratives 🌟 As we close out this year’s Black History Month, themed "Reclaiming Narratives," I’m filled with a profound sense of purpose and pride. This theme, to me, is about empowerment, visibility, and the courage to own our stories. It’s a reminder of the responsibility we each have to challenge misrepresentations, amplify marginalised voices, and share the beauty, resilience, and complexity of Black identities in every space we occupy. Over the past month, I've had the privilege of participating in and organising numerous activities that align with this mission. From leading community discussions on Black literature and art, to featuring in panels on the influence of Black culture in business, and organising workshops on intersectionality and allyship—each experience has been powerful. It has been inspiring to connect with individuals who share a commitment to making meaningful change, from corporate spaces to classrooms, from small businesses to social platforms. Through these initiatives, I’m reminded of the progress we’re making and the work yet to be done. Our narratives shape perceptions, inspire change, and lay the groundwork for the future.  Reclaiming them isn’t just a one-month endeavour; it’s a lifelong journey to ensure our history is truthfully told and fully celebrated. As I look ahead, I hold a renewed hope that our collective efforts will continue to foster inclusivity and representation. Here’s to keeping these conversations going, breaking down barriers, and creating a future where all narratives are valued and honoured. Let’s keep pushing forward. 🌍✨ #BlackHistoryMonth #ReclaimingNarratives #RepresentationMatters #FutureForward

"Reclaiming the Narratives," this Black History month deeply resonates with me as a Black woman who journeyed from Sierra Leone to the UK as a child. Navigating the professional world here has been a blend of challenges and triumphs, often framed by the intersectionalities of my identity. Growing up, I quickly realised that the narratives surrounding my heritage were often incomplete or misunderstood. Today, as an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) consultant, I am more committed than ever to reshaping these stories. I’m passionate about ensuring that Black voices are heard, celebrated, and accurately represented in all spheres of life. Reclaiming our narratives means taking back the stories that have been told about us and telling them through our own lenses. It’s about highlighting the richness and diversity of our experiences, which are too often reduced to single stories. As someone deeply involved in driving the diversity agenda, I see this as an essential component of fostering true inclusion and understanding within workplaces and beyond. In every project and collaboration, I strive to make space for underrepresented voices, challenging preconceived notions and inviting authentic dialogues. It's a journey that requires all of us to listen actively, learn continuously, and act courageously. I invite everyone to join in celebrating the multifaceted narratives that define the Black experience. Let’s commit to making room for stories that are not only heard but valued and respected. Together, let's reclaim the narratives, break down barriers, and build bridges towards a more inclusive and equitable future. #BlackHistoryMonth #ReclaimTheNarratives #DiversityAndInclusion #SierraLeoneToUK #EmpowerBlackVoices