Christ Tshiunza - Wales & Exeter Chiefs (@c4ist)
Just as we show appreciation for war veterans, Black History Month to me is an opportunity for people to really appreciate the heroes that fought for equal rights and treatment for those that were mistreated just for their skin colour.
Many Black parents often encourage their children to play football, as rugby is less familiar to them in terms of sport and culture. Seeing players like me on TV, I believe, has had a significant impact on increasing recognition and representation of the sport within the Black community.
When I was in school, I was the only Black player on my team. It’s amazing to see how things have changed: when I return to Wales, I’m often approached by young Black families, and my old school now has many more children of colour playing rugby. It’s nice to know I may have played a part in that.
Tendai Mtawarira - South Africa & Sharks (@tendaimtawarira)
I think it’s important to stop and reflect on the past and keep building towards a better future. For me, times like Black History Month are an opportunity to do that. It’s a time to remember the rich heritage of black people the world over; to cement the principles of equality and justice in the context of a history when black people were not free even in their own countries; to educate our children on that history and the principles of justice we want them to continue carrying - especially to combat any prejudice; to celebrate the richness our black culture brings, in so many contexts; and to celebrate the achievements of the black community, exploring the varied cultures within, and teaching and sharing our own rich heritage with others.
I was inspired by the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu who stood for everything good about humanity. He stepped in to assist me during a very difficult time in my career and helped me to climb my own ladder of success. He is certainly someone I will always remember and admire for as long as I live.
Anthony Watson - England & Leicester Tigers (@anthonywatson)
I think black history month is important in order to recognise people that paved the way for us to live in a freer society. Having a wife from the US makes it even more prominent given the atrocities that happened over there and the recency of it. So it’s very important to me and my family.
Jason Robinson inspired me on my journey. Given he was someone who looked similar to myself, naturally he was an inspiration and my first idol. Given that, I always feel as though we do have a duty to help to pave paths that may help future minorities or kids not represented heavily in rugby.
Gaël Fickou - France & Racing 92 (@gaelfickou)
The black person who inspires me the most is Nelson Mandela. He always wanted peace and happiness for all despite the hardships he encountered. This is an incredible strength of mind. He also did so much for rugby - he is a true source of inspiration and respect.
I am proud of the career I am undertaking but the thing I am most proud of is my name, since my dad came a long way from Senegal to France to give his son the chance to represent his country, and all the values that carries. A black Senegalese man and his Métis son who’s wearing the French jersey with love and a Senegalese name - this is what I am most proud of.
Alessandro Izekor - Italy & Benetton (@izekoor)
Black History Month represents the remembrance of the achievements, struggles, and history of African American people for me. It allows us to remember and educate people about the injustices that Black individuals have faced.. that's why I consider this celebration so important.
The person who has inspired me the most is Muhammad Ali. He was one of the greatest boxers in history, and he taught me that fighting is not just physical; the greatest battle a person faces happens outside the ring, when we fight for our rights and our values.
On one hand, I feel proud of what I have achieved, considering where I started from, it wasn't guaranteed. But on the other hand, there is this desire to inspire more people around the world.
Sadia Kabeya - England & Loughborough Lightning (@sadiakabeya)
For me, Black History Month means embracing who you are, and your roots. Not forgetting who paved the way before you to allow you to be in the space you are now
Shaunagh Brown would be an inspiration to me in the game. She’s just someone who is unapologetically herself, and proudly takes up the spaces she deserves to be in. She's a huge influence on and off the pitch
Do I feel I'm representing aspiring young black girls? I think I’d choose the words 'being visible'. I think visibility is a huge thing in terms of inspiring other young black girls. Me doing what I love on a platform is huge in itself; to [make girls think] ‘Oh, if someone like me is doing it, so can I’.
I am really proud of how far I’ve come so far in my rugby journey. I don’t take it in often, if at all, but I'm super grateful to be playing for club and country, with lots more to learn and hopefully more to come.
Junior Kpoku - England U20 & Racing 92 (@junior_kpoku)
Black History Month means strength and recognition for the amazing achievements black people have gained throughout history. Martin Luther King Jr. is an example of that: how he fought for the rights of black people and gave us as a civilisation a chance to live equally.
In the context of my own life, Dr. King was my inspiration. He was an exemplar of what bravery should look like in the face of racial adversity.
I do feel like I represent a lot of aspiring Black players and I hope that as I progress in my career they can use my success as a stepping stone and a motivator towards their own journey.
I’m very proud of my journey is rugby so far and I believe that with more patience, practice and faith in God, I can develop my game and reach spectacular heights.
Learn more about Black History Month here.
