Black History Month – Embracing Our Stories: ‘I learned to reclaim my power’

October is Black History Month in the UK. This year’s theme is Reclaiming Narratives, a call to take control of the stories of Black history. UK Youth staff members have been Embracing their Stories, by sharing their biggest barriers.

Christine Holdbrook, a project officer with UK Youth, said: “In reflecting on the biggest barriers I’ve faced, being the only Black person in certain work settings exposed me to the harsh realities of racism and exclusion. I’ve experienced verbal abuse that nearly drove me to quit, but I learned to reclaim my power.

“Instead of letting these obstacles defeat me, I rose above them, thriving despite the challenges. I knew I had to pave the way for others who would come after me, showing them – and those I worked with – that being marginalised does not define or limit one’s potential.

“At times, my strong work ethic and tenacity were perceived as threats, leading to sabotage attempts. Yet, these attempts only reinforced my determination, as I believe no-one can dim a person’s light—they only make it shine brighter. Staying true to myself and embracing my identity have been key in overcoming these challenges.

“More recently, as a single Black parent, I’ve faced difficulties in finding an employer who understands the balance between work and childcare responsibilities. It can be daunting to enter spaces where you’re in the minority, but I’ve learned to walk in with my head held high, proud of my Blackness, and ready to face whatever challenges arise. My experience at UK Youth has been transformative in this regard, offering support that many organisations do not.

“As we celebrate Black History Month with this year’s theme of Reclaiming the Narrative, it reminds me how essential it is to reshape the stories being told about us. For too long, the narratives of Black people have been controlled by others, often focusing on struggle and limitation. By reclaiming the narrative, I ensure that my story—and the stories of others who look like me—are told through a lens of strength, perseverance, and achievement.

“I stand tall because I want my son to see that being Black is a source of pride and power. I do this for him, knowing that with perseverance, hard work and the right guidance, he can overcome any barrier and achieve greatness, regardless of the societal challenges he may face.

“Reclaiming our narratives means celebrating the full breadth of our experiences, not just the hardships, but the victories too, and passing down that legacy to the next generation.”

UK Youth is a leading charity with a vision that all young people are equipped to thrive and empowered to contribute at every stage of their lives. With an open network of more than 9,000 youth organisations and nation partners; UK Youth reaches more than four million young people across the UK and is focused on unlocking youth work as the catalyst of change that is needed now more than ever. To find out more, visit ukyouth.org 

UK Youth is involved in a range of programmes designed to help young people thrive, such as outdoor learning, physical literacy, social action and employability. For more on UK Youth’s programmes, see ukyouth.org/what-we-do/programmes