Urban Synergy, a leading mentoring charity, is reflecting on the theme of reclaiming narratives as we mark Black History Month 2024. Leila Thomas, the CEO and Founder of Urban Synergy, believes that this year’s theme is deeply moving and resonates with a profound truth.
“The stories we tell about our history, past and present, shape our perception of the world and our place in it,” says Thomas. “Unfortunately, the rich and diverse history of Black people is often overshadowed by a narrow set of narratives. This is why our campaign on social media features new narratives and stand-out moments from our role models. We hope to inspire young people through their stories.”
Thomas also emphasizes the importance of telling new stories that connect the past with the present, while also inspiring the next generation of young Black leaders to create their own future. She was reminded of this during a recent event she attended in Ypres, Belgium, to honor the fallen soldiers of the British West Indies Regiment (BWIR).
The event, organized by the British West India Regiments Heritage Trust (BWIRHT), commemorated the contributions of thousands of West Indian soldiers who fought bravely in World War I. Many of these soldiers never returned home. Thomas, standing at the memorials with Lewisham Mayor Brenda Dacres and surrounded by veterans dressed with dignity and respect, felt a strong sense of generational connection.
“It was a stark reminder of the sacrifices these men made, not just for freedom, but for the legacy they left behind—an enduring legacy that we must reclaim and pass on to future generations,” says Thomas.
She reflects on how important it is for young people today to have real role models who stood for something larger than themselves. “Not just the celebrities or influencers they see in the media, but people who embody strength, resilience, and commitment to a cause greater than personal fame or wealth. These veterans, and many others like them, represent the stories we need to be telling more often.”
Urban Synergy is committed to creating new narratives by empowering young people to succeed and thrive in fields where they’ve traditionally been underrepresented, such as STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). One success story is Angel, an 18-year-old software engineer working in Canary Wharf. Through the charity’s mentoring program, Angel was able to unlock her full potential and break through barriers that often prevent young Black girls from pursuing careers in technology.
“Angel is a hero, not just because of her achievements, but because of the example she sets for other young people, particularly Black girls, who might not see themselves reflected in STEM industries,” says Thomas. “Her story proves that with the right support, opportunities, and connection to their history, young people can overcome any obstacle.”
However, Thomas believes that many young people still look to celebrities and athletes as their only source of inspiration. While there is much to admire in their talents, Thomas believes that true growth comes when young people begin to see the everyday heroes around them—people like Angel who are breaking barriers, or like the veterans of the British West Indies Regiment who gave everything for a future they would never see.
“The connection to our history, to those who came before us, is essential. It grounds us and gives us a sense of pride in our heritage,” says Thomas. “This Black History Month, let’s show our young people that they come from a lineage of strength, courage, and brilliance. When they understand this, they thrive. They no longer feel limited by stereotypes or systemic barriers, but empowered to rise above them.”
Thomas calls on everyone to recognize the heroes in their own communities, celebrating the young people who are working hard to succeed, the mentors who guide them, and the ancestors who paved the way. “Let’s not wait for history books to validate their contributions. Let’s start telling their stories now,” she says.
Urban Synergy is proud to play a role in reclaiming these narratives, fostering generational connections, and helping young people see that they are part of something much bigger than themselves. “We believe in the power of mentorship, the power of community, and the power of our collective history to inspire future generations,” says Thomas.
“As we move forward, let’s ensure that the next generation of Black leaders knows not only the famous faces but also the unsung heroes who helped build the world they now have the opportunity to shape. In doing so, we will create a future that reflects the full depth and richness of our past,” she adds.
Thomas extends her gratitude to all the role models who inspire young people, and to those who have joined Urban Synergy on this journey. For more information on partnering with Urban Synergy or to get in touch, visit their website.
About Urban Synergy:
Urban Synergy is an award-winning early intervention mentoring charity that aims to empower young people from underrepresented backgrounds to reach their full potential. Through a combination of mentoring, role model seminars
