Black Students’ Society progress

Gloria Ngaiza (DPhil Clinical Medicine, 2021) writes

Society Activities 2023

‘Am I black or African?’

‘I was the only black student in my previous college.’

These refrains echo through the ancient halls of Oxford, whispered by black students grappling with questions about identity. The dreamlike spires of this historic city offer a promising new beginning, but for many black students, it is a journey full of uncertainty. They carry the weight of a past where they were already a minority, and Oxford merely extends that realisation. Yet, here, the stakes are different, the atmosphere more challenging, and a perpetual sense of imposter syndrome killing their confidence. They find themselves fighting battles against racism and for equal opportunities, even after achieving academic excellence.

For some black students, particularly those hailing from African countries, this marks their first encounter with the concept of ‘the minority’ or the need to identify themselves by their race. It is their first journey into the understanding that society can pass judgments based on appearances alone. I worried about many things in Tanzania, my birthplace, but my race was not among them. My heart was serene, my life boundless; racial boundaries were foreign. In addition to these challenges, there is an added pressure to grapple with a foreign culture, an unfamiliar climate, and the relentless demands of academia.

Recognising these struggles, the Black Student Society (BSS) at Green Templeton College comes in. It welcomes students from diverse backgrounds to gather and embrace their rich tapestry of experiences. It provides a platform to voice their ideas, find solace in shared struggles, and kindle the flames of empowerment. Here, in this society, they can forge a collective strength that will see them through their time at Oxford and prepare them for all the journeys that lie beyond.

Despite being in its infancy, BSS, in the academic year 2023, embarked on a remarkable journey of social, educational, and charitable endeavours:

Social Harmony

The society orchestrated a symphony of social events, from leisurely punting on tranquil waters to cosy movie nights and monthly lunches. These gatherings allowed black students to forge connections, share their narratives, and build enduring friendships.

Intellectual Awakening

Under the banner of ‘Uncomfortable Oxford,’ the society dared to initiate critical dialogues about race, privilege, and class. It was a tour aimed at enlightening society members and other students at the college about Oxford University’s uncomfortable history that shapes our experiences today. In addition, a student mentorship programme paired seasoned black professionals with ambitious students, guiding them toward shared career paths. This mentorship was instrumental in nurturing black students’ academic success and personal growth.

Acts of Compassion

The society exhibited unwavering global solidarity, extending its embrace to the corners of the world where its members hailed from. A heart-warming bake sale raised over £600 to support humanitarian efforts in Sudan, showcasing the society’s immense compassion and collective strength.

Engagement with Influence

Understanding the vital role of actively participating in college affairs, the society’s leadership took an active seat in Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) meetings. Our presence ensured that black students’ concerns and experiences were acknowledged and acted upon in college policies and decision-making processes. We also partnered with the University Counselling Service to encourage mental health services-seeking behaviour among our society members.

Leadership Shines:

Our society members entered various roles within the 2022/2023 college students’ government (Graduate Common Room). Marwa Elbasheer and Gloria Ngaiza served as the Black Students Co-Representatives, Adebisi Adenipekun as the Development Officer, and Tracy Serebour as the International Student Representative.

Honouring Legacy

Black History Month celebrations punctuated the calendar this year. With a series of events and activities, we educate, entertain, and celebrate black history and culture. The month starts with an academic talk featuring renowned scholars to catalyse dialogue and profound reflection on black individuals’ historical and contemporary experiences. An unforgettable Afro-Caribbean Bar Night aims to become a vibrant tapestry of unity and celebration by bringing students from diverse backgrounds together and offering a taste of the rich Afro-Caribbean culture through music and dance.

In closing, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the college administration for their unwavering support of our society’s activities. Together, we are writing a new chapter of empowerment, unity, and boundless possibilities for black students at Green Templeton College, University of Oxford and beyond.