This Black History Month UK 2025, we celebrate a theme that resonates deeply with the spirit of progress and resilience: “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.” This powerful declaration recognises the strength, achievements, and unwavering spirit of the Black community, while also looking forward to a future of continued empowerment, leadership, and cultural celebration. 

At the heart of this theme are the stories of young people who are actively embodying “power and pride” in their daily lives and communities. We are incredibly proud to shine a light on the Young Changemakers programme, a transformative initiative developed in partnership with UK Youth and The Diana Award, and made possible by the generous support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery. 

More than a Programme: A Movement of Empowerment 

The Young Changemakers programme is not just about participation; it’s about ignition. It’s designed to empower young Black women and non-binary individuals aged 13-25 from Black, African, and Caribbean communities to become leaders in mental health advocacy and drive social change. The core of the programme focuses on: 

• Building a Foundation: Providing participants with essential training, knowledge, and tools to understand mental health challenges, develop advocacy skills, and confidently articulate their experiences.
• Creating Safe Spaces: Fostering a supportive environment where young people can connect, share their stories, and find strength in their collective identity and lived experiences. This sense of community is vital for nurturing pride.
• Driving Action: Equipping Changemakers to design and deliver social action projects that tackle mental health inequalities and stigma within their own communities. This is where their power translates into tangible impact.

Watch their Voices Emerge

We invite you to watch this inspiring video, which beautifully captures the essence of the Young Changemakers in action: 

In the video, you’ll witness firsthand the transformation as these young women find their voices. They speak about the importance of being heard, the strength in shared experiences, and their determination to create a better future for those who come after them. Their words are a testament to the fact that when provided with the right support, young people can indeed “stand firm” and lead with immense power and pride. 

Standing Firm in Power: 

The programme’s emphasis on social action and advocacy directly translates into the “power of collective action and leadership.” These young Changemakers are not waiting for change; they are actively creating it. They are developing projects that challenge systemic issues, raise awareness, and build crucial support networks, demonstrating that youth voices are not just heard but are instrumental in shaping policy and practice. Their leadership is a beacon for their peers and communities. 

Standing Firm in Pride: 

Equally important is the celebration of “pride in Black identity, culture, and heritage.” The Young Changemakers programme offers a space where participants can explore and affirm who they are, drawing strength from their rich cultural backgrounds. By sharing their personal narratives and connecting with others who share similar experiences, they build a robust sense of self-worth and belonging. This pride is not just personal; it radiates outwards, inspiring others and fostering a stronger, more connected community. 

A Future Forged with Power and Pride 

As we observe Black History Month UK 2025, the Young Changemakers programme stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when we invest in the potential of young Black leaders. Through strategic partnerships with UK Youth and The Diana Award, and the vital funding from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, we are enabling a new generation to “Stand Firm in Power and Pride” and forge a future where all young people can thrive. 

Join us in celebrating these incredible Changemakers and supporting initiatives that truly empower young voices. Let their journey inspire us all to stand firm, proud, and united.