As a Black woman CEO in the youth charity sector, I often reflect on the journey that brought me here. Too often passion is mistaken for being “too assertive’’. But the truth is, I simply wake up every morning with a fire to create opportunities for young people and that is what fuels me.

The charity world is not an easy place to navigate. It gets harder every year, especially when striving to be invited into certain rooms and around certain tables. Yet when I look back on where I started working from the ground up. I know every challenge has been part of building the foundation I stand on today. That is my power, and that is my pride.

This year I’m surrounding myself with people and organisations that believe in creating real pathways for grassroots charities like Youth Action Alliance. My hope is that more corporate partners will open their doors so that small, dedicated charities can not only survive but thrive, building sustainable futures for the next generation.

I’m also reminded of my love for carnival, and the incredible Respect Campaign created by Anthea Hudson at the Notting Hill Carnival. Carnival has always been about honouring our history, our struggles, and our resilience but also about joy, community, and looking forward to a brighter future.

Black History Month is a reminder to stand firm, to be proud, and to keep pushing forward. Here’s to the opportunities ahead and to the power of passion, resilience, and community.

Tania Moore

CEO - Youth Action Alliance