News Stafi Samaki (bisobib) Launches Black History Month 01.10.2025

With the 1 October signalling the start of Black History Month our student Diversity committee led assemblies to raise awareness of this year’s theme, Standing Firm in Power and Pride. The theme aims to shine a light on historic events such as the rebellions that challenged the institution of slavery to the civil rights movements that laid the groundwork for abolition, and to show how black people have consistently exercised courage, vision, and agency on both sides of the Atlantic.

One of the highlights of the week was the talk at our Middle School assembly by 25-year-old Stafi Samaki – photographer and casting director with a multi-industry and multi-disciplinary background – who also set up the Black in Britain (bib) platform that is dedicated to amplifying Black voices and creating space for talent, stories, and perspectives to shine. What began as a zine when Stafi was aged just fifteen has evolved into a vibrant space that showcases Black history, talent, and culture in the UK, while connecting them to broader audiences. As a casting director and assistant Stafi has worked on Surviving Earth, The Best Man, Grime Kids, and Heartstopper, among many, many others, specialising in ‘street casting’ with aspiring actors who haven’t had the opportunity to go through the traditional drama school route. Year 10s and 11s found Stafi’s talk, her passion, and what she has achieved so far, really inspiring and there were lots of questions at the end of the assembly. They were keen to show their appreciation to Stafi for what was a great start to Black History Month.