Tag Archives: Black excellence

Making Time for Black Mental Health Event – 4th Year Spring Anniversary

I recently attended the “Making Time for Black Mental Health” event hosted by Bella from Think Tenacity Academy CIC at Cottons Caribbean Restaurant in Vauxhall. The event took place on friday 22nd of May 2026

it was a reminder of the importance of safe community spaces that centre Black wellbeing. The event brought together over 100 attendees, including families, carers, advocates, therapists, Plus Healthwatch Southwark, Healthwatch Lambeth, CNWL Talking Therapies Service Westminster, Carers UK, alongside other community organisations supporting mental health awareness and wellbeing.

We were all united around conversations on mental health, lived experience, and reducing stigma within the Black community.

The event was officially opened by Folake Segun, CEO of Healthwatch Lambeth which led on to meaningful conversations, which I have created a video to show highlights of the event.

As a carer advocate, I found the event especially valuable because it highlighted how community-led support can create genuine impact.

The evening included a Q&A session with Black therapists and speakers who openly discussed mental health challenges, cultural understanding, and the importance of representation in support services.

There were also wellness stalls, books, information tables, and opportunities for local organisations to connect directly with the community. Seeing families, children, and professionals all engaging together showed how mental health conversations can become more accessible and less stigmatised when events are designed with inclusion at the centre.

What stood out most to me was the sense of togetherness and intentional care throughout the event. Think Tenacity’s mission to tackle health inequalities and create spaces where Black people feel seen, heard, and supported was evident in every part of the evening. Hosting the event at a vibrant riverside venue with free entry, wellbeing activities, and opportunities to socialise created an environment where people could relax while also engaging in serious and necessary discussions around mental health.

Events like this are essential because they remind us that advocacy, wellbeing, and community support all go hand in hand.

Find out more about Think Tenacity Academy CIC:
Contact: SerenaEventManager@thinktenacity.com

Next event date: 23rd September 2026
https://ThinkTenacity.eventbrite.com

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Standing Firm in Power and Pride — A Certitude Black History Month 2025 Celebration

By Matthew McKenzie – Mental Health Carer Activist

As a carer and mental health advocate, I often see how culture, identity, and lived experience shape the stories we tell and the way we support one another. Recently, I attended a remarkable Black History Month event hosted by Certitude, although I could not stay long, I left feeling inspired, proud, and deeply reflective about the intersections between culture, community, and care.

The Black History Month event was held at Bruce Kenrick House on the 16th of October 2025

About Certitude

Certitude is one of London’s leading social care providers, supporting people with learning disabilities, autism, and mental health needs to live fulfilled and independent lives. What makes Certitude special is its person-centred approach celebrating individuality, empowering self-expression, and ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive.

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Power, Pride, Progress: A Celebration of Black History Month 2025

By Matthew McKenzie – Facilitator of national ethnic carer forum

Black History Month 2025 is not far behind, this blog celebrates the spirit of “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.” The video. hosted by Matthew McKenzie, founder of the National Ethnic Mental Health Carer Forum invites viewers on a reflective and inspiring journey through history, identity, and purpose.

Unpacking the Theme: Power and Pride

“Power” in Black History Month isn’t about titles, it’s about leadership that uplifts communities, resistance that shapes policy, and vision that transcends obstacles. From political trailblazers to artists and educators, Black leaders have transformed the narrative of equity.

“Pride” stands for cultural identity, heritage, and the vibrant legacy of Black excellence across generations. It pulses through art, storytelling, music, and traditions that echo forward. This month invites us to embrace that heritage without reservation or apology.

Call to Action: Watch, Reflect, and Share

We invite you to watch the video, reflect on its message, and share it widely. Encourage your community. friends, family, colleagues to stand firm in their own power and pride. Let’s amplify these voices and build bridges toward an inclusive future.

Commemorating Groundbreaking Milestones

This year holds special significance:

  • The 60th Anniversary of the Race Relations Act — a pivotal moment in Britain’s legislative effort to combat racial inequality.
  • Remembering Malcolm X — whose courage and conviction continue to inspire global movements for justice.
  • The 80th Anniversary of the Fifth Pan-African Congress — where visionaries like W. E. B. Du Bois, Kwame Nkrumah, and Amy Ashwood Garvey united to confront colonial oppression.
  • Honouring Paul Stephenson OBE — leader of the 1963 Bristol Bus Boycott.
  • Honouring Lord Herman Ouseley — instrumental in advancing Britain’s approach to institutional equality.

Their legacies reinforce that our present progress is rooted in collective courage and unwavering solidarity.

Why This Matters for Mental Health and Carers

At the core of the National Ethnic Mental Health Carer Forum’s mission is the recognition that cultural heritage and identity are integral to wellness and caregiving. It’s a call to action. It urges us to:

  • Break down barriers that impact mental health support.
  • Cultivate environments where cultural pride is part of healing.
  • Celebrate carers, families, and communities who carry resilience forward every day.

I hope the month brings us together, brings communities together to celebrate black history. Thanks for reading.