Standing Firm in Power and Pride – Doha College Celebrates Black History Month 2025
Throughout the month of October, Doha College, one of the leading British international schools in Qatar, proudly celebrated Black History Month under the inspiring theme “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.” The initiative, led by the school’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, invited pupils and staff to reflect on identity, resilience, and the achievements of Black role models throughout history and across the world.
Primary Pupils: Discovering Through Story, Rhythm, and Creativity
Doha College's Primary pupils took part in a range of engaging activities designed to promote empathy and cultural understanding.
In EYFS, pupils read books like The Colour of Us and Brown: The Many Shades of Love, discussing skin tones and learning to mix paints to create different skin tones and to celebrate what makes each person unique. KS 1 pupils read Hair Love, creating hairstyles for the characters while sharing affirmations about individuality and self-expression. KS 2 pupils studied an adapted version of Maya Angelou’s A Brave and Startling Truth, and crafted their own poetry that reflected courage, inclusion, and belonging. The pupils also learned about Gladys West, the brilliant scientist who helped to develop GPS technology. The children enjoyed retelling her life story and celebrating her incredible achievements.
A highlight of the month for FS2 Blue was a special visit from Mrs Bekkers, a Doha College parent, who read The Lemon Tree. This story introduced pupils to Nelson Mandela’s legacy and the universal importance of fairness, respect, and compassion. The session was brought to life through a vibrant lemon-themed sensory tray, filled with textures, scents, and colours that captured the children’s imagination. As they explored, pupils reflected on kindness and equality in a joyful, hands-on way that made the story’s message both memorable and meaningful.
Together, these experiences helped our youngest learners understand that celebrating diversity means recognising the value in every story, every person, and every shade of humanity — a lesson that lies at the heart of Doha College’s inclusive ethos.
The Beat of Togetherness: Drumming and Dance Workshops
In collaboration with the DEI committee, Doha College hosted African drumming and dance workshops led by guest performers, Patrick and Alex. Pupils in Primary learned traditional African rhythms and movements, discovering how music can unite communities and tell stories. The energy-filled sessions were a joyful highlight of the month — filled with rhythm, laughter, and teamwork.
Secondary pupils also joined a “jamming session” during their breaktime, an experience that encouraged creativity, collaboration, and a deeper appreciation for African heritage and artistic expression.
Creative Expressions: Bracelets, Poetry, and Pride
One of the most visually striking initiatives was the bracelet-making activity, inspired by this year’s Black History Month theme, “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.” Guided by the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, students explored the deeper meaning of colour, pattern, and form, learning how each design element could carry cultural and emotional significance. Beads in rich tones of red, gold, green, and black were carefully chosen to symbolise strength, unity, and perseverance, echoing the Pan-African colours and their historical associations with liberation and pride. As pupils crafted their bracelets, they discussed the stories behind traditional African artistry and how handmade objects often serve as expressions of identity, connection, and belonging.
A Conversation with Denice Wallace
The school had the privilege of welcoming author Denice Wallace, whose visit bridged both Primary and Secondary learning experiences through the power of storytelling and open conversation.
Denice began her visit with an engaging storytelling session for Primary pupils, during which she read her book, Travel with Dani. Through her captivating narration, pupils joined Dani on her adventures across the world, discovering new cultures, traditions, and experiences. The story’s uplifting message of curiosity, acceptance, and global friendship deeply resonated with the children, encouraging them to appreciate the beauty of diversity and to see the world as a place filled with opportunity and connection.
Later in the day, Denice met with Secondary pupils for a Q&A session that delved into the deeper themes of representation, equality, and belonging. Pupils asked insightful questions about her personal journey as a writer, her inspirations, and the importance of amplifying diverse voices in literature. Denice’s responses were thoughtful and inspiring, highlighting how storytelling can challenge stereotypes, promote empathy, and empower individuals to embrace their identities with confidence.
A Taste of the Caribbean at Doha College
Celebrating culture also means celebrating cuisine. Doha College collaborated with its canteen provider &Deli and transformed the space into a hub of flavour, colour, and cultural exploration, featuring a curated special menu that brought the vibrant tastes of the Caribbean right to the heart of our campus.
On the last day before half-term break, pupils and staff were treated to a delicious array of traditional Caribbean dishes, rich with spices, textures, and stories. From jerk chicken and fragrant rice to tropical fruits and sweet treats, every meal offered a sensory journey through the Caribbean’s diverse culinary heritage. The aroma of herbs and spices filled the air, sparking curiosity and conversation among students eager to learn more about the cultural origins behind each dish.
This initiative was more than just a food experience; it was an act of cultural connection. Teachers and pupils discussed how cuisine reflects history, migration, and community, while celebrating the joy of sharing meals across cultures. For many students, it was their first introduction to Caribbean cooking, and the response was overwhelmingly positive; plates were cleared, and smiles were abundant.
By blending education with experience, Doha College once again demonstrated its commitment to promoting global awareness and cultural appreciation in meaningful, everyday ways. The Taste of the Caribbean week not only delighted the palate but also deepened understanding of how food can unite people, tell stories, and celebrate diversity, key elements of the school’s DEI ethos.
Our Black History Month activities reflect the heart of what we stand for at Doha College, recognising every voice, celebrating every story and creating a community where each learner feels empowered and proud. Through creativity, conversation and connection, we aim to ensure that diversity is not just acknowledged, but lived every day.
Maisie Hesketh, DEI coordinator
Reflecting Doha College’s Ethos: Standing Firm in Power and Pride
As one of the leading British international schools in Doha, Doha College remains steadfast in its mission to nurture global citizens who embody respect, compassion, and integrity. Central to this mission is the school’s DEI programme, which ensures that every member of the community feels valued, represented, and empowered. More than an initiative, DEI is a lived philosophy, one that guides how students learn, connect, and grow together in an increasingly diverse world.
The Black History Month 2025 celebrations beautifully reflected this ethos, reminding everyone that diversity is not only something to be recognised but also celebrated as a source of collective strength. Through music, art, storytelling, cuisine, and reflection, pupils and staff explored how heritage and identity shape who we are and how we understand others. Each activity, from vibrant drumming sessions to creative bracelet-making and literary storytelling, encouraged gratitude, pride, and a sense of unity across the school community.
