Thoughts on Black History Month

Revd. Nezlin Sterling reflects on her nomination for the Mayor's competition to find the most inspirational black man or woman for 2011 Black History Month.

When I was told that I had been nominated for the Mayor’s Black History Month competition, I was surprised and humbled... My congregation was very excited, but I thought ‘who am I to be on this list among so many inspirational and famous people?'

I am mindful of the great and outstanding figures that have had such an influence both locally and across the world who also have been nominated. In London, there is Revd. Rose Hudson-Wilkin, a role model for the Church of England’s black community, who has successfully established herself in an honest and humble way and who I met while serving as the ecumenical representative of the Black Majority Churches on the Church of England General Synod. I also admire Diane Abbott, the first black woman MP who has been a member of Parliament for almost 25 years; and others such as Pastor Agu Irukwu and Dr Sentamu, Archbishop of York. On the global stage, figures such as Bishop Tutu, Nelson Mandela and Barack Obama show the success that can be achieved if you persevere.

There are so many inspirational figures within the black community, it is impossible to recognise them all in any one list but I thought my place could have been taken by the late Bishop M L Powell, founder of the New Testament Assembly, an organisation celebrating 50 years of ministry in this country and for which I serve as the International Executive Secretary.

I often exalt the young people of my organisation, expressing to them that they can excel if they have the self-belief and determination; that they can penetrate any institution and make a difference to society; to grasp and maximise every opportunity in this culturally rich and diverse country and be prepared to work hard in the process.

Rev. Nezlin Sterling