‘May the stories shared here spark a flame that drives us towards a future that is fairer and more equitable for everyone.’ Dr Noreen Dera, Author
Today we are excited to launch a report about Spark Inside’s innovative Black Hero’s Journey life coaching programme in prison.
We have been very inspired by this year’s Black History Month theme of ‘reclaiming narratives’ and our report shares powerful stories of identity, affirmation, resilience and transformation from young Black men in prison, which often go unheard.
Significant evidence highlights that more needs to be done to recognise and meet the needs of young Black men in custody. This report presents the findings of an audit of Black Hero’s Journey, a co-designed programme offering an impactful and culturally sensitive approach to rehabilitation. It is delivered by Black professional life coaches and fosters a ‘safe space’ for young Black men to engage with and explore their own identity.
“Seeing a Black coach doing things made me believe I could too.”
The young adult ‘storytellers’ featured in the report describe a prison system frequently characterised by hostility, discrimination, and oppression. Black Hero’s Journey enabled them to challenge negative stereotypes; navigate their own racial and cultural identities; celebrate being Black; develop a positive sense of self; develop a sense of ‘brotherhood’; and discover greater purpose, motivation and hope for the future:
“I feel like I have got a calling in life, greater than what I limit myself to. Society and the system try to keep me boxed in, but I’m greater than that.”
The report identifies nine ‘calls to action’ in creating transformative spaces for young Black men including:
- Create and sustain safe spaces made for and run by Black people
- Foster a sense of community and brotherhood
- Promote historical and cultural awareness
- Challenge and dismantle harmful narratives
- Harness the power of hope
Thank you to everyone involved in Black Hero’s Journey, and producing this important report, especially our ‘storytellers’. We hope you enjoy reading the report.
Click here to read the report.
