At Alleyn’s, the Minority Students Union meets regularly to celebrate culture, amplify under-represented voices, and create space for meaningful discussion. For Black History Month, we wanted to explore how Black history is still being written today — in our own lifetimes.
In this year’s assembly we took our school community through 25 years of modern Black excellence, from 2000 to 2025 — a powerful reminder that history is being made by those shaping sport, art, politics, and culture right now.
Moments That Shaped Our Generation
2000 – Serena Williams wins Wimbledon, redefining tennis and inspiring a generation. 2001 – Robert L. Johnson becomes the first Black billionaire, breaking barriers in business. 2002 – Halle Berry and Denzel Washington make Oscars history, challenging Hollywood’s norms. 2008 – Barack Obama becomes the first Black U.S. President — a moment that redefined possibility worldwide. 2012 – Mo Farah wins double Olympic gold, showcasing Black-British brilliance on the global stage. 2016 – Beyoncé’s Lemonade transforms music into cultural commentary. 2019 – Stormzy headlines Glastonbury, turning performance into protest. 2020 – Black Lives Matter sparks a global civil rights movement. 2021 – Amanda Gorman reminds us of the power of young Black voices. 2023 – Burna Boy headlines a UK stadium, marking Africa’s rising global influence.
Each milestone reminds us that progress is continuous — not a moment, but a movement. As we celebrate 50 years of independence for Mozambique, Angola, and Cape Verde this year, we also recognise that Black liberation is ongoing.
“Black history isn’t only about looking back. It’s about celebrating the present and shaping the future together.” Aviyah, Minority Students Union
The Minority Students Union is committed to keeping that conversation open all year. Our meetings are a space for all students to share, learn, and celebrate culture together. Black History Month may end, but the story doesn’t.
By the Minority Students Union
Ready to Find Yourself at Alleyn’s?
Registrations are now open for entry in September 2026
Click the year group below to apply today and join a community where every individual ROCCKS.
Alleyn’s School: 11+, 16+
Alleyn’s Junior School: 4+, 7+ and 9+
Alleyn’s Oakfield: 4+, 7+ and 9+
Last updated on 18 09 2025 at 02:48
.png)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.png&command_2=resize&height_2=85 "Alleyn’s records best ever A Level grades and record Oxbridge places")
.png&command_2=resize&height_2=85 "Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson at the Southbank Centre")
.jpg)