October is UK Black History Month. This year’s theme is ‘Proud to be…’. Throughout the month, we are asking colleagues of colour: What one moment, event or person stands out in your memory that makes you proud of your heritage?
Lovejoy Ngairongwe, Management Assistant, North East England tells his inspiring story in his own words:
“My parents told me the story of Madam C.J. Walker, a self-made millionaire who was born on a cotton plantation in Louisiana and became wealthy after inventing a line of African American hair care products. She established Madame C.J. Walker Laboratories and was known for her philanthropy. This story at such a young age had a lasting impact on me, making me the hardworking business-minded individual l am today. That story gave me the confidence to thrive and become the best version of myself regardless of my circumstances. Coming from one of the worst-performing High Schools in the UK l was fortunate enough to be one of less than 10 people that made it to university from that school. When I was 14, Nestlé nominated me as one of the thirty most business-minded kids under the age of 16 and from then l was able to have successful businesses throughout high school, college and university. Knowing that regardless of background we can achieve anything has made me who I am today. That discussion at such a young age stands with me for the rest of my life making me proud of my heritage”.
At Enterprise we believe that where you start in life shouldn’t define your future success. We strive to break down barriers into and within our organisation to build a workforce that is fully representative of the communities in which we work. Join us, and help strengthen our business with diversity of perspective, opinion and voice.
