At NJC, Black History Month is an important moment to reflect on the people, histories and lived experiences that shape our diverse workplace. It’s a reminder of how vital representation, inclusion and understanding are in creating a workplace culture where everyone feels they belong.
This year, one of the ways we recognised Black History Month UK was through a special episode of the Not Just Cleaning podcast. Our People & Culture Director, Kieran Soar, spoke with Bright Amartey Kabo, one of our site operatives, about his journey from Ghana to the UK, his heritage, and why this month holds deep personal significance.
Bright joined NJC soon after relocating to the UK. His transition to a new country came with challenges, adjustments and learning, something many colleagues in the facilities management industry can relate to.
In the podcast, Bright shares his story with a powerful message about belonging, resilience and the importance of being seen and supported at work.
For Bright, Black History Month is:
“A celebration or the observance of the history, culture, achievement and contributions of Black people.”
He talks about why knowing your roots matters, your culture, your heritage and the history that shapes you. It’s a theme at the heart of both diversity and inclusion and NJC’s commitment to a people-focused workplace.
The NJC podcast touches on Ghana’s history, including its past as the Gold Coast and its long links with Britain and Europe. Bright reflects on the impact of colonisation and the transatlantic slave trade, an important history that continues to shape both Black British identity and global culture today.
This part of the conversation reinforces a key truth:
Black history is British history and it influences the workplaces and communities we are part of today.
This understanding is essential to building genuinely inclusive workplaces, particularly in sectors like facilities management, where diversity is a strength.
NJC’s approach to inclusion and belonging is grounded in listening to our people and recognising the value of different perspectives. Supporting Black History Month is one part of a broader, year-round commitment to:
The conversation between Kieran and Bright reflects this commitment in action, people listening, learning and sharing openly.
Bright is clear that Black History Month should not be limited to one month. The themes it raises representation, heritage, identity and voice, deserve attention all year round.
He encourages all of us to:
At NJC, these principles guide how we recruit, support and develop our people. They help shape a workplace where everyone feels they can contribute and thrive.
We’re proud to celebrate Black History Month at NJC and grateful to Bright for sharing his story.
You can watch or listen to the full podcast episode featuring Bright Amartey Kabo and Kieran Soar below:
If the episode sparks thoughts or ideas, we’d love to hear from you. The conversation continues not only in October, but every day.
Let’s keep learning, listening and celebrating together.