In October 2023, UoN launched the Black Sports Collective (BSC) – aiming at bringing together Black students at the university who are interested in sport and fitness at all levels and providing a support system to inspire and motivate them to excel.

Last year, the university appointed Derrick Osaze – our first ever Black Student Sport Officer, who oversaw a research project aimed at exploring the perceptions of Black students and their experience within Sports at the university.

More than 350 students were involved in the project, which focused on identifying barriers for Black students participating in sports activities.  

One of the outcomes of this project was the creation of the Black Sports Collective. 

“The BSC will act as a megaphone for the community to celebrate their success.” – Derrick Osaze (Black Student Sport Officer)

Black Sport Student Ambassador Nia Jackson said: “We aim to provide a supportive community for black students who want to get active! We also have some exciting opportunities for black students, and we are running events throughout the year”.

The launch event for the collective was attended by more than 90 students and saw a mixture of competitive games and quizzes, with great prizes up for grabs.

Key events and opportunities were highlighted and signposted to while giving the students the chance to meet the team and buy into the collective’s ethos. 

“I would like to emphasise how delighted I am to be part of such an incredible team and also proud of the university’s efforts in closing the attainment gap while highlighting black sporting excellence within the community as they have been very supportive in enabling the team to do what needs to be done.” – Oluwapelumi Joshua Oguntunde – BSC Team 

On Wednesday 4 October 2023, the collective launched the Black Sporting Icons display banners at Black at the David Ross Sports Village and Jubilee Campus Sports Centre.

The aim of the banners is to recognise and celebrate the history, achievements, and influence of black athletes – including a few UoN alumni.  

On Friday 27 October 2023, the BSC kickstarted the UONSU ‘Let’s Talk’ series with a focus on Black History Month with topics such as ‘Is Black history month properly celebrated in the UK?’ and ‘Should the term ‘BAME’ be abolished?’.  

These discussions brought together individuals from all races to share perspectives and ultimately learn about Black experiences. There were two fantastic panels comprised of inspirational members of the University including UnN alumni and wider Black community.  

Myrah Oloo, a UoN alumni and panel speaker at the event said: “I’m honoured to be invited to have an open, honest, thought-provoking panel at my alma matter, the University of Nottingham, celebrating Black History Month.”

Following the event, the BSC launched its very own ‘Real Talk’ series, a space where black students can come together to have honest, open discussions and debates about relevant issues in a safe space with ‘a bit of banter and good vibes which has always been a form of therapy for members of the black community’ – Derrick Osaze (Black Student Sport Officer).  

The black student-led panel discussed their views and experiences around microaggressions, racial protests and cultural appropriation vs cultural appreciation.

These areas of discussion generated a lot of polarised opinions, that broadened perspectives of people who attended which made the ‘Real Talk’ event enjoyable and engaging.

“Rounding out 2023 on a high, the BSC has definitely made a positive impact so far and we’re looking forward to more ‘Real talk’ events amongst many other programmes!” – Edwin Kwakye (Black Sport Student Ambassador).

If you’d like to know more about the collective, please don’t hesitate to contact Derrick Osaze.  

Objective 4.15 from our Race Equality Charter is to improve graduate outcomes for Black, Asian, and minority ethnic students. Find out more about our race equality commitments here.