We spoke to our new Inclusion Advisory Group Chair and NFA Board Member, Charlotte Akester, about the importance of Black History Month and what it means for football.

Hi, my name is Charlotte, and I am Northamptonshire FA’s new Board Member and Inclusion Advisory Group (IAG) Chair. I come from a mixed heritage background, with my father's family from England and my mother's family from Barbados in the Caribbean. My involvement in football beyond playing began when I started coaching at Netherton United in Peterborough. Later, I moved to Lincoln for university, where I coached women's football for the University of Lincoln and ran a grassroots team. Recently, my work in football has been more off the pitch, serving as a member of the Lincolnshire FA IAG and spending two years on the FA National Youth Council as the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) lead, then vice chair.

What is Black History Month?

Black History Month is dedicated to celebrating and understanding Black history within the UK. This year's theme, "Reclaiming the Narrative," is more than just a theme—it's an invitation to the Black community to take ownership of how our stories are told, how the contributions of Black people are recognised, and how our experiences are acknowledged. Additionally, Black History Month empowers the next generation by offering inspiration, education, and a fresh perspective on Black history.

What does Black History Month personally mean to you?

To me, Black History Month is an opportunity to engage with and celebrate the contributions of Black people to UK society. It allows us to deepen our understanding of the experiences of different communities throughout history. The theme, "Reclaiming the Narrative," offers an innovative way to share and understand the stories that have shaped British history. Black History Month also serves as a powerful tool for individuals to begin their journey in learning about a less-discussed part of history, introducing them to figures who have made significant contributions in fields like science, sports, literature, healthcare, and the armed forces.

In football, learning about historical figures like Walter Tull, trailblazers like Mary Phillips and Kerry Davis, and modern-day icons such as Alex Scott and Bukayo Saka, Black history has undeniably enriched both football and society.

Why is Black History Month important, both in general society and in football?

Black History Month provides an essential moment each year to reflect on and better understand the history and experiences of the Black community. It celebrates the achievements of individuals while offering a platform for diverse voices. Crucially, Black History Month is a catalyst for integrating Black history into the broader teaching of history in society.

In football, it offers a chance to explore the deep connections between the Black community and the sport. It's a time to reflect on the experiences, both positive and negative, that Black people face within the game. The month also highlights the role models and trailblazers who have paved the way for change, and these changes are not just for Black people, but for everyone who loves the game.

How important is representation, both in football and in society?

Representation goes beyond simply seeing someone who looks like you doing what you aspire to do. It’s about feeling like there is a space for you to belong. Seeing people from similar backgrounds or who share your identity can make you feel that you, too, have a place in that space.

Do you have any important role models who have meant a lot to you?

For me, Hope Powell is an important role model. When I began coaching, the environment was extremely male-dominated, and there were very few female coaches, let alone Black female coaches, to look up to. Hope Powell is not only a trailblazer for Black women but also a driving force for women’s football in general. Her work as the England head coach was pivotal in professionalising and raising the standards of the women’s game.

I also admire people who are unapologetically themselves and are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in. Lewis Hamilton, Lauren James, and Raheem Sterling are great examples of this.

What is your experience as a Black woman in a male-dominated field like football? Does your identity as a Black woman influence your approach to coaching or leadership?

In every role I take on, I strive to lead with compassion and empathy for people's experiences. As someone who has faced both racism and sexism in my football journey, I’ve learned the importance of listening and understanding. These insights help me create accessible and inclusive environments.

One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the value of providing a platform for others. Many people have given me the opportunity to share my experiences and knowledge, and I am committed to ensuring that people from different communities feel they have a seat at the table. This is essential for making football more inclusive for all.

What can the football community do to engage with Black History Month, and what can it do to better support Black athletes beyond Black History Month?

The key is to be open. Black History Month is not about erasing or diminishing the history of other cultures or groups but rather about highlighting the history and experiences of the Black community.

There is so much Black history intertwined with British football history. For example, Chelsea adopting Trojan Records (a Jamaican music label) as part of their pre-match anthem with "The Liquidator," or Walter Tull, England’s first Black footballer and British Army officer who played over 100 times for Northampton Town. Justin Fashanu was the first openly gay professional footballer, another significant figure in Black and football history.

Supporting Black athletes beyond Black History Month means listening to their experiences, understanding what has impacted them positively or negatively, and being an ally. It’s about consistently providing platforms for their voices to be heard, recognising their contributions, and supporting them year-round.