An RNRMC grant has helped facilitate a recent seminar commemorating Black History Month, welcoming personnel from across the MOD to HMS Collingwood.
The event was the brainchild of Leading Physical Trainer Regaina Cawley who was inspired to deliver the seminar entitled “Challenging Stereotypes, Changing the Future”.
Open to all serving personnel, regardless of diversity background; colleagues from across the MoD, Army and Royal Air Force were welcomed, together with delegates from organisations and Networks, stall holders and panel members for the discussion periods.
The main aim was to inspire and educate attendees, through presentations and discussions on matters that affect the Royal Navy’s Black Community whilst celebrating its members’ achievements. The VIP in attendance was Rear Admiral Robert Pedre RN, Royal Navy Race and Ethnicity Advocate and Commander United Kingdom Strike Force. Keynote speakers included Dr Jodi Burkett, Senior Lecturer in History at the University of Portsmouth who discussed the history of stereotyping, Chikere Igbokwe, DEI Consultancy and Allyship Community who gave a brief on Allyship and Alice Dearing, Olympic Open Water Marathon Swimmer and Co-founder of the Black Swimming Association. The afternoon saw a series of panel discussions which addressed some of the topics raised throughout the morning and a short talk from Rufai Ajala, a former Weapons Engineer Officer, who spoke about why representation matters.
Talking of her inspiration and desire to hold the event Regaina said “I thought this was something that WE all needed and deserved as it would provide an opportunity to have Black military voices heard, but more importantly listened to. It was also a chance to provide education and inspiration for individuals to go out and make a difference in their work and social space.
I would like to pass on my thanks to everyone who contributed, supported and attended this important event, including all the guests and sponsors, Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity and Greenwich Hospital, without whom it would not have been possible.
LPT Regaina Cawley
