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As we celebrate Black History Month, Nottingham Forest Community Trust is shining a spotlight on Black and Afro-Caribbean participants who are making an impact both on and off the pitch.

In the first of our special series, we speak with T’Kai , a dedicated post-16 education student currently in Year 13, studying for his Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport with Nottingham Forest Community Trust.

T’Kai share’s his reflection on what Black History Month means to him, his inspirations in football, and his aspirations for the future.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

“Black History Month is really important because it gives people like me the chance to look up to role models and see ourselves in them. It helps us realise that no matter what our background or race, we can achieve anything if we set our minds to it. For me, it’s about confidence, knowing that I belong in any space I choose to be in.

It also spreads awareness and brings different cultures together. Sometimes communities can be divided, but during Black History Month, it’s a reminder that we’re all part of one big family. We get to celebrate each other’s achievements and appreciate the Black people in our community who have contributed so much.”

Is there a Black footballer who has inspired or influenced you?

“I’d say Marcus Rashford has been a big influence, especially with everything he’s done off the pitch. He’s shown young people that it’s possible to stand up for what you believe in while still being successful in your career. Another is Sadio Mané. What he’s done for his community back home in Senegal, using his earnings to build schools and hospitals, shows that you can use football as a way to give back.”

“And then there’s the first Black referee in the Premier League, Uriah Rennie as well as current Premier League referee, Sam Allison. We’ve got loads of Black players in the leagues now, but we need to see more Black coaches, referees, and people in other roles in football. That way, young people can feel like there’s a path for them in any part of the sport.”

What are your goals in life?

“My goal is to work in the sports industry, specifically in football. I’ve always enjoyed the game, and I want to take that passion further, maybe through coaching or playing. Through coaching, I want to help younger players develop, especially those from backgrounds like mine.”