The words “Affirm”, “Self-care”, and “Manifest” have become the latest social media buzzwords. They may even sound as cliche as “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken”, “Mind over matter” or “When life gives you lemons make lemonade”, however, these positive mantras are exceptionally important in this day and age.

During my uni years, I was lucky enough to get involved in making a documentary on the Black Liberation Front with the Young Historians Project, a political and cultural group that emerged from the struggles of what it meant to be a Black Briton in the early 1970s to the early 1990s.

The people’s champ, Stormzy has announced a £500,000 donation which will fund scholarships for disadvantaged students. This is part of his long term commitment, which he first announced in June to give away ten million pounds over a decade to help organisations that are dedicated to fighting racial inequality in the UK.

Many have tried, but you cannot silence the voice of black culture. It’s just too stubborn. Not even the coronavirus pandemic could manage it.

Today we’re honouring Ashley Walters: an iconic Black British rapper, actor and producer. This individual’s influence and longevity within the entertainment and music industry must be recognised. He has continuously broken barriers for young Black men and women, but most importantly, the younger generations.