Black History Month 2024, themed ‘Reclaiming Narratives’, aims to recognise, correct, and celebrate the narratives of Black history and culture. To mark the occasion, Zellis Group colleagues enjoyed a keynote ZED talk from the pioneering activist, Linda Bellos OBE.

Black History Month 2024 events and initiatives are showcasing the achievements of Black individuals, highlighting their rich contributions to society. This year’s campaign focuses on Black people’s impact in four key areas: Literature, Science and Technology, Social Justice, and the Armed Forces.

In today’s world, stories are powerful tools that shape how we understand our past, present, and future. For too long, the history of Black communities has been told through lenses that often misrepresent, oversimplify, or entirely overlook the rich and diverse experiences of those who lived it… This theme offers a fresh perspective on Black history that goes beyond the traditional focus on slavery and civil rights. It’s about celebrating Black excellence in all its forms—whether in the arts, sciences, politics, or everyday life.”

Black History Month 2024

Tackling inequalities in the world of work

While celebrating successes, Black History Month 2024 is also a time to recognise ongoing inequalities, including in the workplace.

  • The ethnicity pay gap persists across the UK, with Black employees earning 4 – 8% less than their White British counterparts.
  • Black workers are more likely to be in insecure work: 19% of Black workers compared to 10% of White workers.
  • Black people continue to face discrimination in the workplace: 41% of Black and other minority ethnic workers have experienced racism at work

While much positive progress has been made, the work continues to address racial inequalities both in the workplace and society.

Black History Month 2024 at Zellis Group

This year, we’re honoured to welcome Linda Bellos OBE, a renowned consultant, trainer, and writer specialising in equality and diversity, to address Zellis Group employees.

Black History Month 2024 Linda Bellos OBE

Linda Bellos is a figure synonymous with advocacy, equality, and change. She has been a dynamic force in British political and social activism since the 1980s, with significant contributions to LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and feminism. Notably, Linda was pivotal in introducing Black History Month to the UK. She continues to be a leading authority on equality and human rights law and its practical application across the public sector.

Linda was born in London in 1950 to a Nigerian Yoruba father and a white Polish Jewish mother. Her upbringing in the diverse and multicultural environment of Brixton deeply influenced her perspectives on race, identity, and social justice.

Linda’s talk was an inspirational and educational keynote, drawing on her vast experience as a skilled communicator and motivational speaker. Zellis Group colleagues from Zellis, Moorepay, and Benefex came together to hear her insights and ask thoughtful questions.

Flashback: ‘Saluting our Sisters’ in 2023

Last year, we had the privilege of hosting L’myah Sherae (below), founder of racial justice organisation Enact Equality. L’myah shared her experiences in fighting for racial equality in education across the UK through her non-profit organisation and her work with the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Race Equality in Education.

Look back at last year’s event and theme, ‘Saluting our Sisters’, here.

We believe that employee experiences can be a catalyst for change.

As we continue to build on these valuable experiences and insights, Zellis Group remains committed to helping organisations improve diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), so all employees feel seen, respected, and motivated at work.