As Black History Month gets underway here in the UK, we’re looking back to when our Young Leaders took a cultural walking tour of Atlanta.
Over the summer, our Young Leaders were joined by Joleon Lescott and Shaun Wright-Phillips as they embarked on an inspiring cultural walking tour of Atlanta.
The tour was proudly led by Alfeo Dixon, a dedicated member of the local ATL supporters’ group, who stepped up to guide the group through the city’s rich history. Highlights included visits to significant landmarks such as the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and Sweet Auburn Avenue.
This experience sparked important conversations on black leadership and identity among our Young Leaders, providing a safe space for them to share their own stories and backgrounds while listening to and appreciating the perspectives of others.
Atlanta has a proud history of social justice which didn’t go unnoticed by our Young Leaders, taking the time to reflect and connect this with their own identities and communities.
You can find out more about the meanings behind Black History Month here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/explainers-54522248
Throughout the tour, Lescott and Wright-Phillips listened attentively to the stories shared by our Young Leaders, reflecting on how their own experiences and communities have fuelled their passion for driving change through soccer.
They also reflected on how everyone’s unique journey has shaped the Young Leaders’ approach to coaching, using the sport to create safe and inclusive spaces.
Black History Month will take place this year on 1st October 2025 to the 31st October 2025. View the official website here: https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk/
Take a look at the video above to see everything our Young Leaders got up to!