Heskey Delivers Black History Month Message At Local Primary School

- Emile Heskey delivers assembly at Shaftesbury Primary School
- The former LCFC striker spoke about the importance of Black History Month
- He also discussed some of the challenges and experiences faced during his career

The former England international – who was recently appointed the Club’s new Head of Women’s Football Development – spoke to more than 50 pupils about the importance of Black History Month and what the celebration means to him. 

He also discussed his life growing up in Leicester, while talking about some of the challenges he faced during his career and how he overcame them.

Held annually in October each year, Black History Month brings an opportunity to celebrate the contributions, achievements and impact of black people and those from historically underrepresented ethnic communities across the UK.

Speaking at the school, Heskey said: “It’s really important that children are educated on this subject at an early age because we’re all different and it’s all about celebrating that difference.

“For me, it’s also vital to have someone to look up to at a young age, be that in sport or in any other field. Role models are so important because they help to inspire us to achieve what we want to do.

“When I was a child growing up, my idols were the likes of Linford Christie and John Barnes, two men who have Caribbean backgrounds, just like myself.

“They were people I could relate to, and they helped me on my journey because I aspired to be like them.”

Emile’s visit to the school was one of a number of sessions taking place throughout October, with coaches from Leicester City in the Community delivering lessons about Black History Month to hundreds of local children.

Karl Stewart, Head Teacher at Shaftesbury Primary School, said: “We want to inspire our children to be the best that they can be, so having someone of Emile’s standing coming to our school to tell our pupils that they can achieve anything through hard work, determination and perseverance is massive for us. 

“He was absolutely brilliant with the kids, and they were really engaged by him and had some great questions to ask.

“His key message though, and one I’ll certainly take away from the assembly, was to push yourself and not let anyone tell you that you can’t do something.

“He’s a real inspiration to children across Leicester and I’m really grateful to him for visiting us and sharing some of the challenges and experiences he’s faced during his career.”

The assembly also formed part of the Club’s support for the Premier League’s No Room for Racism campaign, with all top-flight fixtures between 16 October and 24 October dedicated to the initiative.

Year 6 pupil Raiyan added: “It was great to meet Emile and to be able to ask him a question about his career. I was taking down bits of information he was saying so I can learn and then take into my life.

“It’s important we learn about Black History Month in school because we should all know about it and celebrate the fact we’re all different.”

Leicester City is committed to creating a passionate, inclusive and welcoming environment. Should anyone experience any form of harassment, discrimination or bullying in a Leicester City setting, please contact help@lcfc.co.uk or call 0344 815 5000 (option four).

On a matchday at King Power Stadium, you can speak to your nearest steward, or report any form of discrimination or hate crime by texting FOXES followed by your message and seat details to 60066.

Please click HERE for more information about Black History Month.