Former LFE learner and Middlesbrough U21s right-back George Gitau recently took part in an online Q&A with Year Four pupils from Brambles Farm School to answer questions on Black History Month, racism, education and his own career to date.
The 19-year-old played an integral part in the Middlesbrough Academy Teesside Trailblazers campaign last season, where a group of then U18s used their own experiences of recognising and tackling racial discrimination to help inspire other young people.
October is Black History Month, an opportunity to spotlight and celebrate the achievements and contributions made by people of African heritage.
Gitau told the pupils at Brambles Farm School why Black History Month is important to him: “Black History Month is important to me because it’s kind of like a representation of my heritage and culture, and it shows me that people who may look like me and speak like me can achieve great things, so it resonates with me on a personal note.”
The Q&A, which was organised by the MFC Foundation was received brilliantly, with all parties thoroughly enjoying the experience.
Gitau told Middlesbrough’s website: “I enjoy sessions like this and I think they’re very important.
“Education is vital and as a young footballer if I can play a part in that education I’m only too happy to get involved. It’s an important issue, and both our Foundation and our Academy do so much positive work in the community.”
