Inspirational Black History Month event held for inmates and officials at North Wales prison

The event at HMP Berwyn was held for more than 40 learners, including inmates and prison officials, as part of the Teaching Beyond Walls initiative led by Chester Business School lecturers Dr Oluwatobi Ogunmokun, Dr Vivian Ariguzo and Dr Trevor Omoruyi.

It saw learners hear and talk about the contributions and achievements of black people who have often been overlooked in history books, and understand their impact on society throughout history and today, such as nurse and businesswoman Mary Seacole, who provided assistance to the sick and wounded in the Crimean War, and Kofoworola Abeni Pratt, the first black nurse in the NHS.

Those in attendance were also encouraged to share their views, knowledge and personal experiences with prejudice and stereotypical behaviour, as well as any types of discrimination or racism. Learners also had the chance to delve into the contributions of white people such as William Wilberforce, Thomas Clarkson and Abraham Lincoln. 

Feedback from those who attended said of the event: “It inspires people to think about how to treat others fairly, so everyone is treated with respect, regardless of their background or skin colour.” and “It's an opportunity to share and celebrate the rich heritage and culture of people from African and Caribbean backgrounds but also helps teach people about the unfair treatment (racism) that black people have faced.”

Jade Perkins, Deputy Head of Education at HMP Berwyn, added: “At HMP Berwyn, we wanted to focus on the empowerment of BHM by embracing diversity and including learners from all walks of life including the Healthier Relationships class.

“A special thank you to the three speakers from the University of Chester for their success in creating a safe and interactive space for audience participation. Through this we can use some practical strategies to promote diversity and foster inclusivity on a different level.”

Senior Lecturer and MBA programme Director at Chester Business School, Dr Trevor Omoruyi, added: “It was such a huge opportunity to be able to deliver such an engaging session in a different learning environment. The learners were very receptive and respectful. They felt we were inspiring, and to hear them wanting to engage with future sessions was quite fulfilling for us. They did showcase how much they wanted our communities to be such that promotes love, mutual respect and development.

“As academics, we must continue to play our role in ensuring we are making positive impacts both at local and national levels. Walls should not be a barrier to learning and skills development.”

Caption: Dr Oluwatobi Ogunmokun, Dr Trevor Omoruyi and Dr Vivian Ariguzo with Workshop Manager at HMP Berwyn, Trevor Noble.