Voices of Black History Month

Voices of Black History Month

Alex Kumi, Support Worker

In celebration of Black History Month, we’re speaking with Advance customers and team members to understand what the commemorative month means to them.

Here, Alex Kumi gives his take on Black History Month and the opportunity it gives to promote understanding of different cultures.

Alex joined Advance as a Support Worker around six months ago, having moved to the UK in February 2025. He previously lived in Ghana, where he was a nurse for almost four years.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

I didn’t really know much about Black History Month before, as I don’t remember it being such an event in my home country of Ghana. But I think it plays an important role in honouring black people and their achievements, understanding our history and encouraging people to learn about different cultures.

Why is it important to celebrate Black history in our communities?

It is a great opportunity to raise awareness around diversity, celebrate black people and highlight how we all contribute to the development of our communities. We have a diverse society in the UK, so getting to know more about each other, our backgrounds and the way we live helps break down potential barriers and bring people together.

How does Advance make you feel included and valued?

I love working for Advance – they are open, transparent and give equal opportunities to everyone. They offer courses and training to help me and my colleagues develop our skills, knowledge and career. There are various bonuses and incentives available too. They also offer flexible working hours, which helps people to live comfortably with a good work-life balance.

If there are any issues with your work, they will sit down with you, talk things through and explain things clearly and positively. They make me feel valued, respected and appreciated.

What does inclusivity look like to you?

Giving fair opportunities to everyone, respecting everyone, treating everyone equally – across all our colleagues, customers and communities. This approach is embedded in the culture of Advance, which is one of the reasons I love working here. I have always loved taking care of people – that is why I became a nurse and then a support worker – so, of course, inclusivity is a key aspect of my day-to-day work.

How can organisations continue to celebrate diversity and promote inclusion all year round, not just during Black History Month?

I think it is essential for all organisations to make sure equality of opportunity, inclusivity and celebration of diversity are fundamental to everything they do. Job opportunities, training, career development and acknowledgment of achievement through awards or bonuses should be open to everyone. All of us, our colleagues and customers are a family of human beings, so that sense of unity should be encouraged and promoted in everything an organisation says or does.