Gerald Okoye – What we could all learn from Black History Month

Gerald Associate Director, Client Manager, Global Subsidiaries tells us what Black History Month means to him

As a client manager within the Global Subsidiaries business, my role is primarily focused on supporting the financial needs of multinational clients across various industry/segments such as Technology, power/energy, healthcare, construction, and automobile across the Americas.

I enjoy my role for a number of reasons but the opportunity to work with a broad base of clients from different sectors keeps the job extremely interesting.

For me, Black History Month is a reminder that I am part of a large community of diverse and dynamic people who are connected by their experiences. This year, I’ll be celebrating the event by finding opportunities to learn about and give back to the community through volunteering and fellowship.

When I reflect on the contributions of Black people, I am in awe. They are such amazing people with big hearts and positive attitudes. I find it difficult to point to only one Black person as my inspiration because all Black people inspire me in very different ways. I would say though that, Fela Aníkúlápó Kuti, a Nigerian multi-instrumentalist, bandleader, composer, political activist, and Pan-Africanist tops the list for me. This is because he chose the path of music and in doing so became a voice in speaking up against social injustice and government failures in a bid to make Nigeria, my home country, a better place -- despite his elitist background and education. As a result, I am inspired to use my skills and experience to give back to my community and make a tangible difference.

When I reflect on the contributions of Black people, I am in awe. They are such amazing people with big hearts and positive attitudes.

I want to encourage all my colleagues to seek out resources to learn more about the Black community. Chinua Achebe and Chimamanda Adichie are two authors that I admire. They have a great ability to shine a light on larger world issues in our community, both in an enlightened and entertaining way. There is a wealth of credible information and resources at our fingertips. Explore your public library, bookstore, or website of choice. Seek out and engage with everything that will help you to become better – both personally and professionally.