Black History Month : Celia Oke

Memorialising our Matriarchs

Black History Month’s theme of #Salutingoursisters got me thinking about our mums, our matriarchs and their contributions to who I am. In my mother tongue (Yoruba) we have a saying Iya ni wura, translated Mother is gold, that’s spot on, thinking of this, I decided that I’ll “Memorialise our Matriarchs”.

Picking just one was a challenge as there’s an embarrassment of riches in this category, the few here are a small representation.

My mum who showed me that compassion and leadership are not mutually exclusive, a social justice warrior, she sparked my passion for equality and inclusion.

My aunt, who has demonstrated love by opening her home and heart to anyone, with no fear or judgement. For four decades, she’s mentored and funded education for so many.

Dr Gee Walker, the mother of Anthony Walker murdered because of his colour. She taught me that forgiveness is a strength and a blessing.

Buchi Emecheta OBE the successful novelist whose semi-autobiographical novels with themes of child slavery, motherhood, female independence and freedom through education, showed me that there is power in vulnerability.

My paternal grandmother, a feminist who didn’t view being blind as a hindrance, who taught me to cook native dishes from our homeland, my best friend who wasn’t embarrassed to express love.

My maternal grandmother, a career woman and entrepreneur, who could rock the highest heels on Saturday night and cook a feast for the family on Sunday. She taught me not to allow anyone to pigeonhole me.

These matriarchs influence, inspire and inform me, I am constantly in awe and blessed by them.

I hope in my role as Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Lead at EEAST, I reflect these traits in my drive to demystify EDI and include everyone in EEAST’s aim to create a workplace where everyone is valued and involved.

This month, join me in saluting, celebrating and memorialising our matriarchs.