Black History Month 2026 Spotlight: Chioma Onoshakpor
This Black History Month, we're "Honouring our Communities" by celebrating the people that make RGU such a diverse and welcoming place to study and work.
In this spotlight, Dr Chioma Onoshakpor, Lecturer in Management and Entrepreneurship and Race Equality Staff Champion, reflects on the communities that have shaped her journey, the importance of belonging, and how small everyday actions can help create a more inclusive environment for everyone
This year's Black History Month theme is "Honouring our Communities". What does community mean to you?
To me, community is about connection, belonging and mutual support. It is the people who celebrate your successes, stand alongside you during challenges, and create spaces where you can bring your authentic self.
Community is not just about shared identities; it is about shared values, purpose and a commitment to helping one another thrive.
I believe strong communities create opportunities for learning, understanding and growth. They remind us that our individual journeys are strengthened by the people around us and that meaningful change happens when we work together.
Which community or communities have shaped your journey the most?
Several communities have shaped my journey. My family and cultural heritage have given me a strong sense of identity, resilience and purpose. The academic community has inspired my commitment to learning, research and creating knowledge that makes a positive impact.
I have also been deeply influenced by communities dedicated to equality and inclusion. Through my work in the Race Equality Action Group and my involvement with initiatives such as Boss Babes Scotland, I have seen the power of people coming together to amplify voices, create opportunities and challenge barriers.
These experiences have reinforced my belief that diverse communities are stronger when everyone has the opportunity to contribute and succeed.
What helps create a sense of belonging for you personally, and at RGU?
A sense of belonging comes from feeling valued, respected and heard. It is created when people are genuinely interested in understanding different experiences and when diverse perspectives are recognised as strengths.
At RGU, belonging grows when staff and students can see themselves represented, when they feel safe to share their ideas, and when they know their contributions matter. Initiatives that promote inclusion, dialogue and collaboration help create an environment where everyone can feel part of the RGU community regardless of their background.
What is one thing you would like people to learn or reflect on during Black History Month?
I would encourage people to reflect on the richness and diversity of Black experiences, histories and contributions. Black History Month is not only an opportunity to learn about the past but also to recognise the individuals who are shaping our communities today.
I hope people take time to listen to different stories, challenge assumptions and consider how they can contribute to creating environments where everyone feels valued and included. Learning about different experiences helps us build empathy, understanding and stronger communities.
What are some actions people can take to help create a more inclusive community?
Creating an inclusive community starts with everyday actions. We can:
- Take time to listen to and learn from people with different experiences.
- Challenge stereotypes, biases and exclusionary behaviours when we encounter them.
- Create opportunities for diverse voices to be heard and recognised.
- Support and mentor others, particularly those who may face barriers to participation or progression.
- Be intentional about fostering respect, kindness and collaboration in our workplaces and communities.
Inclusion is everyone's responsibility, and even small actions can have a meaningful impact when practised consistently.
I believe that Black History Month is an opportunity for celebration, reflection and action. It allows us to acknowledge the contributions of Black communities while also encouraging conversations about how we can continue to build a more equitable and inclusive future.
By honouring our communities, we strengthen the sense of belonging that enables individuals and organisations to flourish.
About Chioma
Chioma is a Lecturer at Aberdeen Business School and leads the Race Equality Action Group. Her main areas of interests are:
- Gender and entrepreneurship
- Race equality, diversity and inclusion
- Artificial intelligence and its impact on society
- Entrepreneurship education and innovation
- Mentoring and supporting students and early career researchers
- Community building and empowering underrepresented groups through initiatives such as Boss Babes Scotland
