Black History Month – reclaiming narratives in the tech industry
Every October, Black History Month serves as a time to reflect on the contributions of Black people who have shaped history in each aspect of our lives, and a time to share, celebrate, and understand the impact of Black heritage and culture.
This year’s theme, which shines a light on reclaiming narratives, goes beyond merely recognising the past, but rather calls for collective action in correcting historical erasure and ensuring that underrepresented voices are heard.
Why reclaiming narratives matters
The 2023 Diversity in Tech Report revealed that only 3% of the UK tech workforce is Black, with Black women making up a mere 0.7%. While we celebrate pioneers like Ada Lovelace, true progress in fostering diversity demands that we amplify the voices and experiences of a broader spectrum of role models, enabling everyone to see themselves reflected in the tech landscape.
Modern contributions: reclaiming space in tech today
To mark this year's theme and genuinely reclaim the narrative in STEM, we must highlight the contemporary contributions of Black individuals and other underrepresented groups who are actively redefining the field. This involves amplifying their lived experiences—not just in relation to their computing careers, but also in their personal lives.
We’re excited to shine the spotlight on three inspiring voices who are driving diversity and inclusion in tech today. As we share their stories, let’s also remember that the most important change we can make is to give others the space to share their own narratives.
Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon
Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon is just one of the pioneering Black women in technology who has paved the way for women and girls like her to feel empowered to thrive within the industry. Her career is nothing short of extraordinary, marked by major milestones like working with Deutsche Bank and the British Science Association, founding Stemettes—a groundbreaking charity that champions women in STEM—and receiving an MBE for her impactful advocacy.
Speaking to Diversity Q, she outlined the pressing need for greater diversity in tech sectors.
“There’s a lot the sectors could do in terms of nurturing, curating and doing its part to create different types of role models and allow different types of people to thrive in the industries”. This alone speaks volumes about what work needs doing, and how we must prioritise underrepresented voices when tackling these issues. “If we don’t have the right kinds of people in the room, then we’re more likely to create technology that ends up being harmful or takes us backwards.”
Her influence on the industry is undeniable, and her leadership in pushing for greater representation in tech has reshaped the landscape. Her work has inspired thousands more girls and underrepresented groups, and her presence in the industry will undoubtedly continue to shape the future as a result.
Dr Jason Nurse
Black History Month coincides with Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and Dr Jason Nurse is a great advocate and supporter of both. When chatting to us, he emphasised that organisations must drive change by collectively implementing practices and initiatives that promote inclusion.
“Often, we can ruminate a bit too much on what are the best actions to take. It’s great that we're talking more about these things, but we need to be acting faster, thinking about our actions, thinking about how not to get stuck in the planning phase, and thinking about what we do now to make things better today, and of course, for the future.”
Our conversation also highlighted the exciting real-world applications of cybersecurity and how the field is rooted in addressing social and human factors, along with policy implications, to create a more secure and representative society.
Salome Tirado Okeze
In 2021, we had an inspiring conversation with degree-apprentice Salome about her exciting journey in computer science, covering her experiences from Year 7 through her work at a consultancy.
Salome's journey offers a powerful perspective on the progress being made in the tech industry. Reflecting on her experience, she shared how meeting others like her during her course helped dispel the stereotypes often associated with the field.
“Meeting people on your course who are like you shows that the stereotypes discussed in the field aren't as prevalent as we think. I am uplifted by the motivation from organisations and individuals to promote diversity and gender balance within the industry, and it makes me feel like I am constantly acknowledged and always have a voice. The support does make me feel like I truly belong.”
Her story shines a hopeful light on the conversations happening in the industry today, where inclusion and representation are becoming increasingly valued and prioritised. As we mark Black History Month, her experiences remind us of the importance of creating spaces where everyone, regardless of background, feels they belong and can thrive.
At the National Centre for Computer Science, we’re committed to making computer science accessible and engaging for all teachers and students, no matter their background. Explore our website to find out more about how we support teachers across England to improve diversity and inclusion in computer science.