Brentford FC Community Sports Trust has been sharing the stories of individuals who are reclaiming their journeys throughout October to celebrate Black History Month

Every week we have showcased different individuals who are making an impact within their community, sport, or education, aligning with the work we do at Brentford FC Community Sports Trust. By highlighting these individuals, we aim to share their often untold success stories, encouraging us to learn, share, discuss, and celebrate their journeys, gaining a fresh perspective on the contributions of Black British people in our sphere.

Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock

Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock is a British space scientist and science educator who has made significant contributions to the field of astronomy and public engagement with science. She has become a powerful voice in the scientific community, inspiring countless individuals and challenging stereotypes and has received numerous awards for her contributions to science and education and was awarded an MBE in 2009.

At an early age Dr. Aderin-Pocock developed a passion for science and mathematics and she has spoken out about how her dyslexia affected her at school. She attended Imperial College London, where she earned a degree in physics and a PhD in mechanical engineering. She has worked on various space projects, including developing instruments for satellites and telescopes. One of these projects included making a high-quality spectrograph which allows scientists to see different types of light through a camera.

Dr. Aderin-Pocock has presented numerous television programs, including the long-running BBC show "The Sky at Night." She has also written books and given talks to audiences of all ages, inspiring a new generation of scientists and engineers.

Dr. Aderin-Pocock is passionate about inspiring young people, particularly girls and people of diverse backgrounds to pursue their dreams in STEM. Through her engaging presentations, books, and television appearances, she encourages curiosity and a love of learning. Having spoken about her own experiences as a female in the field of science, she has broken down barriers and shown that with hard work and determination, anyone can achieve their dreams. Her remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to science and education have made her a role model for people of all backgrounds. She embodies the power of perseverance, and the importance of breaking down barriers to create a more inclusive and equitable future.

Rt. Hon. Stuart Lawrence

Stuart Lawrence is a youth engagement specialist, motivational speaker, author and brother of the late Stephen Lawrence, who died in in a racially motivated attack in 1993. This led Stuart and his family campaign for justice and societal change. Their campaign inspired cultural, and attitude shifts within the media and society.

Stuart has become a strong advocate for the power of education, having been an secondary school teacher for fifteen years, he understands the importance of being able to provide guidance and support young people. His first book Silence is Not an Option is full of accessible, practical insights for young people, it encourages young people to use their voices to effect positive changes. Stuart believes our young people of today have the power to push for change within our society and make change.

As a motivational speaker, speaking at schools and working with public and private institutions he is able to share his own story and his family’s experiences. Stuart has been able to inspire and continue to educate others to live their best lives and make their own narratives.

Iqra Ismail

Iqra Ismail is a trailblazing female footballer who has been reclaiming the narrative around diversity and inclusion in sports and community activism.

Ismail grew up in Southall, London and from an early age knew that she wanted to play football. At eight years old, she was told ‘girls can’t play football’, despite this, she persisted, proved her talent and her hobby grew into a passion.

Ismail stared her own club Hilltop WFC to encourage more Muslim women to play football. At the age of 19 she captained the Somalia’s women’s football and became the youngest-ever recipient of the Football Black List award. These defining moments all took place whilst Ismail was Istudying for a degree in Psychology with Sociology at Middlesex University. Ismail has also been recognised by Forbes who listed her in their ‘’30 under 30’’.

Iqra's story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of community. She continues to inspire and empower young women to pursue their passion for football and beyond.

Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton's career has been marked by his exceptional talent, relentless drive, and groundbreaking achievements in Formula 1. Hamilton made his Formula 1 debut in 2007 and won his first World Championship in 2008. Hamilton, being the first Black Formula 1 driver to win seven World Driver’s Championship titles - tied with Michael Schumacher - has reclaimed his own narrative by talking about his own challenges related to his race and identity.

His drive and determination to succeed transcended any racial barriers. Hamilton has used his platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion, including increasing diversity in motorsport. In 2021, Hamilton founded Mission 44, a charity that aims to achieve greater representation, diversity, and inclusion in motorsport to create meaningful change for young people facing social injustice through education, empowerment, and employment opportunities.

This year, an official collaboration with Formula 1 and Mission 44 was announced. Hamilton is also committed to reducing his carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices. He has made significant lifestyle changes, such as adopting a plant-based diet and investing in eco-friendly projects.

In 2024 it was announced that Hamilton will be the co-chair of the Met Gala in 2025, one of fashion’s most prestigious events. Having invited and paid for upcoming Black designers to attend the event in 2021, he is demonstrating his impact and importance of diversity in the industry. Lewis Hamilton's story is not just about his incredible success in motorsport, but also about his commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

His journey has been one of resilience and self-affirmation. He has embraced his identity as a Black man and used his experiences to inspire others. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of standing up for what is right.

More Inspiring Figures

Read about more individuals who have reclaimed their narratives and featured in our feature throughout October by clicking here.