Tetra Tech: Celebrating Black History Month with Jacqueline Okuyemi-Daniel

October marks Black History Month in the UK, bringing people from many different backgrounds together to celebrate the positive role of black people in shaping our communities. This year’s theme for Black History Month is ‘Saluting Our Sisters’, so what better time to salute and hear from our own Racial Equality DEI Lead, Director of Project Management and Head of Project Controls, Jacqueline Okuyemi-Daniel.

 

Jacqueline Okuyemi-Daniel.

 

What does Black History Month mean to you?

"Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of Black people to society, not only in history but also for modern-day leaders and innovators. It allows us to reflect on the challenges that Black people have faced and continue to face, while committing to working towards a more inclusive and equitable world. As a mother of young children, I use this time to teach them about their heritage and culture, to be proud of their identity and to help them develop the resilience and strength to overcome any challenges they may face. Black History Month means different things for all individuals, but for me it is a time to celebrate, teach, reflect, and recommit."

 

Do you have any experiences of racial inequalities that you would be happy to share with us?

"I've been fortunate not to have encountered explicit racial inequalities, but I have experienced micro-aggressions and unconscious bias. However, I've noticed that some people I meet avoid saying my surname due to a fear of mispronunciation. I would encourage anyone that may be curious or struggling to pronounce the name of their colleagues/ friends to just ask or attempt it to say it even if they do not find it easy. This demonstrates a willingness to learn about different cultures, but also promotes and encourages inclusion for all."

 

Who are your inspirations?

Michelle Obama is an inspiration for me because she is strong advocate for social justice. Michelle has used her platform to speak out against racism and to inspire young people of colour to achieve their dreams. She actively promotes education, women's rights and LGBTQ+ rights. She has also been a role model for working mothers where she balanced her career as an accomplished lawyer while raising two young children, and then became the first African American First Lady of the United States. For me she is a great role model for people of all ages and backgrounds due to her commitment to making the world a For me she is a great role model for people of all ages and backgrounds due to her commitment to making the world a better place.

 

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