RGS Guildford was proud to welcome Aisha Sanusi and Serena DeCordova from the African Caribbean Education Network (ACEN) for their annual visit, during which they delivered a series of impactful anti-racism workshops to THird Form students. These sessions form a vital part of the School’s ongoing commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
About ACEN
ACEN, founded in 2019 by African Caribbean parents, is a national organisation dedicated to addressing racial inequity and enhancing access and experiences for Black students in education and the workplace. With a network of over 8,000 parents, students, teachers, and professionals, ACEN works with schools and organisations across the UK to deliver racial literacy training, consultancy, and outreach programmes. Their mission is to tackle underrepresentation and systemic barriers by empowering young Black people to thrive in academic and professional environment.
The Workshops
The workshops began with a thought-provoking exploration of the history of the Black community in the United Kingdom. Aisha and Serena highlighted the long-standing presence of people of African Caribbean heritage in Britain, dating back centuries. From Roman Britain to the Windrush generation, they emphasised the significant contributions made by Black Britons across all areas of society, including the arts, politics, science, and education.
Students were encouraged to reflect on the realities of racism and prejudice, both historically and in contemporary society. The facilitators discussed the impact of stereotypes and the harm caused by microaggressions – subtle, often unintentional discriminatory comments or behaviours. These concepts were brought to life through personal stories and interactive discussions, allowing students to connect emotionally and intellectually with the material.
Many Third Formers actively participated, sharing their own experiences and observations. These honest conversations helped foster empathy and understanding, while also equipping students with the tools to challenge discriminatory behaviour and language in their own lives.
The annual visit by ACEN has become a key part of our school’s drive to promote equity, diversity and inclusion, reinforcing the school’s dedication to creating an inclusive environment where every student feels respected and heard. We are deeply grateful to Aisha and Serena for their time, insight, and energy, and to all staff who helped ensure the day ran smoothly.