Changing lives for the better
ElevatING younG Minds
Explore how our workshops, motivational speakers and positive role models can leave a lasting impact on your students.
The presence of black male role models in British schools is crucial for the educational success and overall development of boys from so-called ‘ethnic minority’ backgrounds.
Statistics reveal that Black Caribbean boys, for instance, have historically faced significant challenges, with only 51% achieving a pass in English and Maths at GCSE level in 2019, compared to 65% of their white peers. The absence of relatable role models in educational settings can contribute to a lack of motivation and engagement among these students.
Black male role models like Fredi Nwaka provide inspiration, mentorship, and a sense of belonging, helping to bridge the achievement gap.
By exemplifying success and resilience, Fredi encourages role models to have higher aspirations and make greater academic effort, fostering an environment where students feel understood and supported, steering their personal journeys towards greater achievements.
Fredi is a storyteller, he brings real-world experience to students, making them aware of how decisions made in the blink of an eye can bring life-changing repercussions. Fredi shows young and impressionable boys and girls, how belief in themselves can bring a lasting and positive impact to their futures.
Read about Fredi’s remarkable and inspirational journey surviving abuse and gang life to becoming a film producer, director and motivational speaker.
Fredi is a storyteller, he brings real-world experience to students, making them aware of how decisions made in the blink of an eye can bring life-changing repercussions. Fredi shows young and impressionable boys and girls, how belief in themselves can bring a lasting and positive impact to their futures.
Black History Month
Black History Month, celebrated every October in the UK, is a vital time for learning, reflection, and recognition, for EVERYONE.
For secondary school students, understanding the importance of Black History Month is essential for several reasons, and Fredi helps students to use this month as a special focus on creating unity and breaking down barriers together, sharing the amazing stories that the black community is a custodian of.
Do you know a young hero?
It’s never too early to start celebrating our young men. Is there a young student (past or present) who deserves recognition and praise for being an exceptional role model? Perhaps they have excelled by helping others, or by beating the odds or rising above adversity. Maybe they deserve recognition for their drive and determination.
Nominate a young man of colour today and start them on a path to achievement and recognition. Be that change.
6 Reasons why Black History Month is important
1. Promoting Inclusivity & Diversity
Black History Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the diverse culture and history that enriches our society. By learning about the contributions of Black individuals and communities, students develop a deeper appreciation for the multicultural world they live in.
This fosters a sense of inclusivity and respect for diversity, which are crucial values in today’s global society.
2. Correcting Historical Injustices
Much of Black history has been overlooked or misrepresented in traditional historical narratives.
Black History Month allows students to explore and acknowledge the achievements and struggles of Black people throughout history. This helps to correct historical inaccuracies and provides a more balanced understanding of the past.
3. Inspiring Future Generations
Learning about prominent Black figures who have made significant contributions in various fields, such as science, politics, arts, and sports, can inspire students.
It shows children from ethnically diverse backgrounds, that regardless of their background, they too can achieve great things and make a difference in the world.
4. Enhancing Social Awareness and Empathy
Black History Month encourages students to learn about the social and political challenges faced by Black communities, both historically and in the present day.
This increased awareness helps cultivate empathy and a sense of justice, motivating students to stand against racism and discrimination.
5. Enriching the Curriculum
Incorporating Black history into the school curriculum enriches students’ education. It provides a broader perspective and deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of global histories.
This knowledge is crucial for developing well-rounded, informed individuals who are prepared to engage with the world.
6. Encouraging Critical Thinking
Engaging with Black history encourages students to think critically about history, society, and their own roles within it.
It prompts questions about equality, justice, and human rights, and encourages students to reflect on how they can contribute to a more equitable future.
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Black History Month Speaker
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Script Writing & Filmmaking
H.E.A.L Workshops for Students
Learn about our transformative H.E.A.L (How Emotions Affect Life) workshops designed to engage students in exploring serious topics such as drug addiction, gangs, mental health, relationships, racism, bullying, and peer pressure to name but a few, through the powerful mediums of script writing and filmmaking.
These workshops provide students with a safe, creative space to discuss and delve into critical issues without taboo or stigma, fostering empathy, awareness, and proactive solutions. The great thing about these workshops is the engagement and excitement students experience when challenged to script and produce a film, putting them at ease discussing the topics they choose to highlight.
We appreciate it’s not always easy to schedule extracurricular activities within the school day, and exploring real-life daily challenges and emotions is too important to neglect. For that reason, we offer sessions tailored to meet your group size, age groups, budgets and time constraints, so let us know what you need, and we’ll do the rest.
By participating in our workshops, students will not only gain valuable skills in scriptwriting and filmmaking but also develop a deeper understanding of critical social issues, fostering a more informed, empathetic, and proactive mindset. Join us and empower your students to make a difference through the art of storytelling.
Below are a couple of examples of how your session could be delivered.
H.E.A.L Workshops
Short sessions over a few weeks
H.E.A.L Workshops
Short sessions over a few weeks
For a more in-depth exploration, our series of workshops extend over several sessions, allowing students to gradually build their knowledge and skills. Each session is designed to layer new information and techniques, starting with in-depth discussions and moving through script development, storyboarding, and finally, filming and editing.
This format not only reinforces learning but also allows for more complex narratives and refined filmmaking techniques. Sessions can be tailored to meet specific needs or time constraints, ensuring flexibility and maximum impact.
H.E.A.L Workshops
Intensive 1/2 day Session
In an immersive 3-hour workshop, students dive straight into discussions about their chosen topic, guided by experienced facilitators. This initial conversation will help students understand the nuances and impacts of the issue.
Following the discussion, students will collaboratively script short films, bringing their insights and perspectives to life through storytelling. The session culminates in the hands-on experience of filming their scripts, providing students with immediate, tangible results and a deepened understanding of the topic through creative expression.
In an immersive 3-hour workshop, students dive straight into discussions about their chosen topic, guided by experienced facilitators. This initial conversation will help students understand the nuances and impacts of the issue.
Following the discussion, students will collaboratively script short films, bringing their insights and perspectives to life through storytelling. The session culminates in the hands-on experience of filming their scripts, providing students with immediate, tangible results and a deepened understanding of the topic through creative expression.
Working with Youth Offending Teams
Keeping it Real with Young Offenders
Fredi is the ideal person to speak to young people in youth offenders institutes because he understands their struggles firsthand.
Having been involved in gangs himself, Fredi knows the challenges and temptations that come with that lifestyle. But instead of being defined by his past, he turned his life around, carving out a successful career in films and acting.
Today, he uses his experiences to inspire young people, showing them that it’s possible to break free from a cycle of crime and violence. Through his work, Fredi empowers youth to channel their energy into creativity and positive pursuits, offering them hope and practical guidance to turn their lives around, just like he did.
Video credited to The Safety Box
Be seen and feel heard
Motivational Speaker
Imagine a motivational speaker who enters the stage with a commanding presence, exuding charisma and confidence that immediately captivates the audience. His name is Fredi Nwaka, a strong Black role model whose life story is a testament to resilience, determination, and empathy. Standing tall with a warm, welcoming smile, Fredi has an innate ability to connect with young people of all ages and backgrounds.
Growing up for Fredi was tough – he wasn’t always the ‘big guy’ you see in front of you today! Despite the challenges of gang violence and systemic racism and a multitude of firsthand experiences with the struggles young people face today, he lends an authenticity to his words that resonate deeply with his audience.
Fredi speaks with a powerful, yet soothing voice, weaving personal anecdotes with broader lessons about overcoming adversity. He shares how he navigated the treacherous waters of his youth, the mentors who guided him, and the moments of failure that became stepping stones to success. His stories are not just about triumph but also about vulnerability, making him relatable and real. His ability to make each person feel seen and heard is one of his greatest strengths.
Whether he is addressing a crowded auditorium or a small group, Fredi Nwaka’s charisma, real-world experience, and deep empathy make him an inspirational force. He not only motivates but empowers his audience, leaving them with a renewed sense of hope and the belief that they, too, can overcome their challenges and achieve greatness.
The Power of a Woman Awards 2025 – Sunday 9th March, De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, London WC2B 5DA
The Power of a Woman Awards
Sunday 9th March 2025
De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, London WC2B 5DA