Community Story Submissions for Black History Month UK 2026

A group of everyday Black Britons from different generations and backgrounds, representing community life across the UK.

We are inviting members of the public, schools, community groups and organisations across the UK to nominate ordinary people from all backgrounds whose lives, actions or contributions deserve recognition as part of Black British history.

These may be individuals who have made a difference locally or nationally — often without public recognition — through service, care, leadership, creativity, education, science, innovation, business or community work.

Who Can Be Nominated?

We welcome nominations of people from all walks of life, including:

Community leaders and volunteers
Teachers, mentors and carers
Health and public service workers
Business owners, entrepreneurs and social enterprises
Scientists, researchers, engineers and innovators
Artists, creatives and organisers
Elders whose life stories reflect shared history
Young people making a positive impact

Nominees do not need to be famous. We are especially interested in stories that reflect everyday contribution, leadership and lived experience.

What We Are Asking For (Initial Submission)

For the initial nomination, we ask for:

A short written piece of around 200 words explaining:
Who the person is
What they do or have done
Why they should be recognised
The impact they have had on others, their field or their community

Submissions from schools are especially encouraged, including work written by pupils with support from teachers.

Images for Posters and Features

To help us create posters and visual features for Black History Month UK 2026, shortlisted nominations will be asked to provide one or more photographs of the person being recognised.

Images should be:

Clear and good quality (photos taken on a phone are absolutely fine)
Of the person alone or in a setting that reflects their life, work or community
Supplied with permission from the individual (or a parent/guardian where appropriate)

For school submissions, images may be provided by the school or by families with consent.

We understand that not everyone has professional photographs. Everyday images are welcome, and all images will be handled and presented with care and respect.

Submission Deadline

To allow time for review, design and production, initial nominations must be submitted by May 2026.

Early submissions are encouraged. Selected nominations may be contacted for further information and images following the initial review period.

How Images and Stories Will Be Used

Selected nominations may be featured as part of:

Black History Month UK 2026 posters
Online features and community showcases
Educational resources and learning materials

Images and stories will only be used for Black History Month UK activity and will not be shared outside this context without permission.

Why This Matters

Black history is not only shaped by well-known figures. It lives in homes, classrooms, laboratories, businesses, neighbourhoods, workplaces and community spaces across the UK.

By sharing these stories, we help ensure Black British history reflects the full diversity of people and contributions that shape our society.