The Football Black List (FBL) made another stop on its regional tour as individuals from across the South West of England united at the FBL Regional Celebration in Bristol.
Supported by the Football Association, the event at Ashton Gate was hosted by presenter and content creator, Jemel Akeem as figures from the community gathered to celebrate black excellence.
Among the attendees on the evening were Jamaican international, Rolando Aarons and Gogglebox personality, Tristan Plummer.
‘It puts Bristol and the area on the map and shows how people can be an inspiration for the younger generation. Just look at someone like Bobby Decordova-Reid for example and how good he’s doing,” said Plummer.
Football Black List co-founder, Leon Mann added: “We are absolutely delighted to be in Bristol. We’re learning so much about the communities and it’s really important that we amplify the talent in this part of the country. A lot of these events often take place in London so it’s vital that we come out of London and connect with the black communities. We need to make an impact across the country if we really want to address the issue of under-representation. Many more people from these communities will be making a big impact not only in this region but across the national game and the FBL can play a part in that pathway to success.”
The evening also saw an inspiring panel discussion featuring Anita Asante (Bristol City Women’s First Team Coach), Jason Euell (Bristol City First Team Coach), Rayan Wilson (CEO and Founder of Back2Action) and Estelle Randall (Strength and Conditioning Coach).
Asante said: “It’s increasingly important that the football industry and black communities collaborate because black people have been contributing to sport and society for centuries. Acknowledging the history of our contributions allows us to show young people what they can do and how far they can go.”
Awards were also handed out to influential members of the community including Errol Thompson, founder of grassroots club Lebeq FC, founded in 1983.
Women and Girls Lead, Grace Philips and Community Coach, Lauren Philips both received awards in recognition of their outstanding work at the Bristol City Robins Foundation.
Lauren Phillips said: “Events like this haven’t happened in Bristol for as long as I’ve been around so it’s definitely a step in the right direction and it’s really exciting to see what the future holds.”
The Football Black List would like to thank everyone who attended and played their part in making a great evening.
Football Black List Leeds Awards Winners
Derek Scale
Dennis Allen
Patrick Williams
Errol Thompson
Owen Smith
Ademola Olagunju
Grace Philips
Lauren Philips
Catch all the action from the Bristol Celebration evening HERE
