This Black History Month, we are celebrating learners whose determination and hard work have transformed their lives through adult learning, from pursuing careers in the textile industry and accounting to building confidence in English after arriving in the UK as a refugee.
We also want to spotlight incredible projects by the adult learners on courses delivered by our partners at London South East Colleges to honour Black history and heritage, explore shared cultural connections and celebrate student self-expression.
Our adult learning service provides range of education courses to prepare for the workplace, gain a new skill or qualification, support self-employment and pursue different interests. The courses are open to all residents, affordable and in some cases free to people whose income is below London Living Wage.
Councillor Asli Mohammed, Cabinet Member for Economy, Town Centres and Co-operatives said: “We are the borough that creates opportunity for residents from all walks of life regardless of their background. This Black History Month, we're proud to share the stories of the Black learners recognised at our annual Adult and Community Learning Awards, along with the incredible projects by students at London South East Colleges.
"The accomplishments of all our adult learners are so inspiring, and we pay tribute to their hard work and dedication. Adult learning offers endless possibilities for everyone: it can help build confidence, nurture creativity, and support employment goals. We want everyone to be able to acquire the skills they need to get their ideal job and build an inclusive economy for all.”
Adult and Community Learning Awards
The annual Adult and Community Learning awards recognise the achievements of students nominated by our delivery partners. This year, the awards ceremony took place in July at the Town Hall.
Jessica Clark
With aspirations of working in the textile industry, Jessica completed several employability courses with Unity Work, who tailor teaching to people with learning disabilities, as well as attending several practical courses with the GCDA. Jessica was consistent in her attendance and demonstrated a real commitment to learning. She always took part in classroom sessions to develop the skills that employers look for. She was praised by her tutors for having a growth mindset and being a model student. Starting as a beginner, she honed her craft and has become very skilled in sewing. Jessica was the Mayor’s Young Learner of the Year. Watch her talk about her journey on the Greenwich Learns website.
Abdelmonem Mohamed Elameen Hashim
Abdelmonem was referred to Community Systems after arriving in the UK from Sudan as a refugee in 2025. Since joining the English for Speakers of Other Language (ESOL) course, his speaking and listening skills have improved and he is more confidence when communicating with others. The activities, group discussions, and real-life practice helped Abdelmonem become more fluent. The course made a big difference to his life, helping Abdelmonem become more independent and optimistic for the future. He intends to progress to the next level of ESOL with the long-term goal of finding work.
Mason Dellimore
Mason wanted to do an accounting apprenticeship but was initially unsuccessful due to a lack of experience and confidence. Following advice from The Training Place of Excellence, he joined the Greenwich Project where he started an Accounting Software Work Experience programme to gain technical knowledge in accounting and completed an ICT course, which improved his digital skills. This progress led Mason to start the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Level 2 Certificate in Accounting under the Apprenticeship Programme. In keeping with his unwavering commitment, Mason collected his certificate the night before he was due to sit his exam.
Amina Mayanja Zawedde
Amina studied Level 2 for Support Work in Schools and Colleges with UCRA. Through her dedication, perseverance, and willingness to engage with the learning process, Amina grew in confidence. She began to participate more actively in class discussions and activities, demonstrating a positive attitude towards learning. Amina secured a part-time job while continuing her studies, showing both her determination and how the programme gave her the confidence and skills to find employment.
Urelles Zely Massanga
Urelles was outstanding commitment, positive attitude, and support of fellow learners throughout the Functional Skills English and Administration programme. She was praised for being a dedicated learner who consistently demonstrated enthusiasm and a willingness to support her peers. She kept her classmates informed by sharing updates and important information through the class group forum, helping everyone stay connected and engaged. She built positive relationships with both learners and staff, and her can-do attitude made a significant impact on those around her.
Projects by London South East Colleges adult learners for Black History Month
Adult learners with our partners London South East Colleges have undertaken several projects which celebrate Black history and the impact on Britain, promote inclusion and belonging, encourage students to learn from one another and showcase their creativity.
Fabric of Our Roots: Show and Tell
Fabric of Our Roots encouraged textile students to share their personal stories and cultural backgrounds to celebrate heritage, identity and creativity. Learners found fascinating connections between their cultural backgrounds and creative practices, creating opportunities for remembrance, discovery, laughter and admiration. The project encouraged students to learn from others and recognise the richness and diversity of shared experiences.
Four Women, One Family: Celebrating Caribbean Heritage
Created by student Karen Huggins in stained glass, this artwork honours four family members, celebrating her Caribbean heritage and family history across generations. Displayed at London South East College's Greenwich Park campus for Black History Month, the portraits celebrate identity, resilience, family connections and the contribution of Caribbean communities to British society.
Learning Beyond the Classroom: Windrush Kitchen Exhibition
Beginners and intermediate ESOL learners from around the world took a group visit to the Windrush Kitchen exhibition at the National Maritime Museum to explore the contribution of the Windrush Generation and Caribbean communities to British food, culture and everyday life. Learners watched demonstrations of authentic Caribbean dishes, developed their vocabulary and practised speaking and listening in English. They also explored the meaning of the word 'maritime' while learning about British seafaring history and cultural heritage.
Celebrating Communities Through Art: Olaudah Equiano
Student Aishat Rosetta Omosmhe Ahmed created a unique mixed-media portrait of Olaudah Equiano (c.1745 to 1797). Originally from Nigeria, Rosetta developed her artistic skills through the Portrait Drawing and Painting and Mixed Media courses. In the portrait of Equiano, Aishat combines acrylic paint, African textiles and hair to celebrate African heritage and Black British history. Following liberation from enslavement, Equiano became a prominent abolitionist and writer whose work generated support for ending the transatlantic slave trade. His historical connections to Deptford and Greenwich make his story particularly significant to the local community.
If you have been inspired by these stories, Greenwich Learns could help you find what you excel at and even take the next step in your career.