As part of Black History Month I had the privilege to interview Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP, the MP for the Streatham Constituency at Portcullis House as an Ambassador on behalf of The Girls' Network.  Myself and three other Ambassadors went through the security along with The Girls' Network staff at Portcullis House which was an experience in itself!   

You are not allowed to take photos in the reception area, the stairways, hallways and the cafe and open area where all the MPs have a break, meet people and generally chat.  You are permitted to take photos in the rooms where meetings are held with MPs. 

Bellavia Janet Ribeiro-Addy aged 37 and of Ghanian heritage is a British Labour Party politician who has served as the Member of Parliament for Streatham since the 2019 general election. Born and raised in Streatham, Ribeiro-Addy grew up in a working-class family on a council estate on Brixton Hill. 

The interview was surrounded around Black History Month and this year's theme ‘Time for Change: Action Not Words’.   Black History Month is a time to celebrate black history, heritage and culture, and the iconic figures that have contributed so much. One of the things that I took from interviewing Bell alongside other ambassadors is that Black Girls deserve to have role models. We need to find someone that has paved the way in the direction in which we want to go in life, so that we know that IT IS POSSIBLE and CHANGES CAN BE MADE! 

I was so pleased to learn that Bell has a Masters from Queen Mary University and a Graduate Diploma in Law from BPP Law School.  I'm studying Criminology, Politics and Drama as well and am an aspiring lawyer and politician, she reaffirmed my belief that  I can reach my full potential, even when facing prejudice, systemic inequality and adversity.

Black female role models not only inspire young black women starting out in our journey to a professional career it tells us that we can thrive and succeed.  

We all have something to give to this world in our unique way but when we see someone who looks like us it lifts us up to believe that nothing is impossible.  It was truly a fantastic experience and I am glad to have had the opportunity to represent The Girls' Network on an occasion like this.  I really do thank God for this opportunity and I can’t wait to see what He has next in-store for me.

Watch the interview with Bell here: