Editors Letter
Celebrating Strength, Resilience and Leadership
“"As we close out February, I’m reflecting on the powerful moments, stories, and voices that shaped Black History Month. From celebrating Black excellence at the Grammys to honoring the legacies of music legends Roberta Flack and Gwen McCrae, this month has been filled with inspiration and remembrance. I also explored the incredible work of the Black Leadership Group UK, the resilience of Paralympian Anne Wafula Strike, and the complexities of life for Black women over 50.
Now, as we step into Women’s History Month, we continue the conversation—amplifying the voices of women across the diaspora and confronting the challenges of today. Read on, share, and let’s keep making history together.”
Dr Diahanne RhineyEditor in Chief
As we close the chapter on February, there is so much to think about and reflect on.
As you all know, I’m proud to celebrate American Black History Month every February, mostly because I believe every month should be Black History Month! I enjoy taking the opportunity to immerse myself in the stories of Black excellence, history and milestones that came out in February. There were some highlights, Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar ruled the Grammys with some inspiring moments.
The month also brought with it a few losses that struck a chord with me. The great Roberta Flack died on February 24th after a lifetime of incredible music that shaped the music industry across genres and will live on for years to come. What would music be without Killing Me Softly?
Also, Gwen McCrae, the much-loved and influential US funk and soul singer, died aged 81 after a long illness. Affectionately known as the “queen of the rare groove”. Her catalogue includes the dance floor anthem ‘All This Love That I’m Givin’. Both women lived such long and illustrious lives, it’s so important to honour their contributions to music.
I was very interested to read about The Black Leadership Group (BLG) UK, their anti-racist mission, and why this matters even more in 2025 by Stella Ngozi Mbubaegbu CBE. It all started in July 2020, sparked by the need for action in the further education sector after George Floyd’s murder. This led to the creation of the Black Leadership Group (BLG) on November 2, 2020. Organisations like these are so very needed.
I was inspired to read about Anne Wafula Strike’s journey as a testament to resilience, courage, and breaking barriers. From overcoming polio in Kenya to becoming a British Paralympian and a powerful advocate for inclusion. Hers is not a story of struggle; but a powerful reminder of hope, perseverance, and the unwavering reminder that we can all create change.
On the topic of celebrating Black women (my favourite topic!), I sat down to pen a piece about Black women over 50 over Valentine’s Day, because I feel this phase of life is particularly complex and is marked by various physical, emotional, and relational changes that simply aren’t talked about enough.
In a world that often overlooks us, we face so much, from societal expectations and dating dynamics to the process self-discovery as we change. When I hit the 50th year of life, I realised that I had no idea what being 50 was supposed to look like.
The question I explored in this article, was how do we work on changing the narrative whilst navigating relationships?
Looking ahead to March, we prepare to celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s a time to lift up the women who have paved the way for us and those who continue to break barriers today.
It is crucial that we amplify the voices of women across our diaspora, honouring their contributions in every field, from politics to arts, education to social justice. Their stories are not just history; they are the foundation on which we build a brighter future.
I’m always excited to get stuck in to Women’s History Month, and the International Women’s Day that is such a key part of the month! This Women’s History Month, Black Wall St Media’s columnist Daniella Maison will write a series that honours the women past while confronting the urgent struggles of today. The first of her 4-part special amplifies the voices of Sudanese women.
This month, I would like to invite you to dive into this edition, share these stories, and carry their lessons with you.
Together, let’s celebrate our shared history and the incredible women who inspire us every day.
