We are thrilled to share that our Black Hero’s Journey programme has been shortlisted for the Community Organisation: Race, Faith or Religion Award in this year’s National Diversity Awards in association with HSBC UK!
We are grateful to receive this nomination, especially as significant evidence highlights that more needs to be done to recognise and meet the needs of young Black men in custody.
Black Hero’s Journey is Spark Inside’s innovative, co-designed coaching programme for young Black men in prison, offering an impactful and culturally sensitive approach to rehabilitation. An audit of the programme in 2024 found that Black Hero’s Journey enabled its participants 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.
One young man interviewed for the report shared:
“I was sort of building my empire and Black Hero’s Journey was one brick… I think without that brick I wouldn’t have been able to put down the next brick, do you get it?”.
A member of staff at HMPYOI Feltham, where we recently delivered Black Hero’s Journey, shared their experience working with Spark Inside:
“From the start, your wisdom and dedication created a safe, empowering space for growth. We began this cohort with nine participants and in a testament to your engagement and the strength of the process, all nine remained through to the end. This alone speaks volumes.
More importantly, the reflections shared by the men at the conclusion of the programme reveal just how transformative the Black Hero’s Journey has been for them. Their voices spoke of resilience, insight, healing, and hope. They articulated a deeper understanding of themselves, their stories, and their potential, a transformation made possible through your skilled facilitations and genuine care.
You did more than guide a programme, you ignited something vital. Thank you all for seeing these men not just for where they are, but for who they are becoming.”
Reaching this stage of the awards is a huge achievement, with only 125 finalists selected across 10 categories from more than 85,000 nominees — all recognised for their commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion.
We are honoured to join other nominees in the category: Academy Achievers, Europia, Keshet UK, Nubian Jak Community Trust, The Amos Bursary, Wai Yin Society and The Mango Ensemble. Winners will be announced on September 19, 2025.
