As part of our Black History Month celebrations, pupils in Ms Kotsuba’s tutor group have been creating presentations on remarkable figures who shaped culture and society. This week, two talks stood out – one on Ignatius Sancho, the trailblazing writer and first Black British man to vote, and another on Russell Thomas, the world-renowned opera singer breaking barriers on the global stage. Both talks were powerful reminders of resilience, creativity, and the lasting impact of representation.
Writes Aadyan V.A. (3rds)
Ayden P. (Divs) gave a talk on Ignatius Sancho, who was an influential Black writer who carved the world Black people live in today. He had a great impact on society despite being orphaned at birth having been born on a slave ship crossing the Atlantic Ocean. His mother died after giving birth to Sancho and his father committed suicide rather than living a life of slavery, which left Sancho to the mercy of the cold, cruel, world black people were having to live in. Luckily, he was freed by the Duke of Montagu and brought to England. Growing up Sancho was enraptured by literature and music and, being the first Black British man to vote, became a beacon of hope to all Black people in Britain, speaking out with courage and humility in his heart against the slave trade. Alongside his political achievements, he was a self-taught scholar and respected composer.
Even now his legacy endures through plaques, museum displays and his portrait.
Writes Eissa Z. (3rds)
Artem K. (Divs) gave a talk on Russell Thomas, who was born in 1976 and is famed for his work as an opera singer. He started singing when he only 18 and since sang at many opera houses. Throughout his career, he was known for his warm, clear and emotional voice.
Notably in 2022, he starred in the lead role of Othello at the Royal Opera House – the first black man to do so. He considered it as a racial injustice that this had never taken place before this point.
He is active in mentoring, giving voice lessons and believes that everyone should have access to good opera.
