London, United Kingdom – 1 October 2020 – The Evening Standard and The Duke and Duchess of Sussex today launch a joint project to celebrate Black History Month (BHM) in the UK. The Duke and Duchess have collaborated with high-profile British BAME figures to help them identify nominees for their ‘BHM Next Gen Trailblazers’ list. The individuals, revealed exclusively by The Evening Standard today, have been chosen for the work they are doing to challenge prejudice in the UK.

The Duke and Duchess called upon some of the British BAME figures who personally inspire them, such as England and British Lions rugby star Maro Itoje, Vogue editor Edward Enninful, Olympic boxing champion Nicola Adams, and Booker prize-winning author Bernardine Evaristo, to each nominate one black person for their positive contribution to British society.

The ‘BHM Next Gen Trailblazers’ list is released today alongside an exclusive article and video interview with The Duke and Duchess discussing BHM and the need for change. The Evening Standard will also publish video statements from the inspirational nominators, who will explain the work the trailblazers are doing across the country, and why they were selected.

The joint project between The Evening Standard and The Duke and Duchess marks the beginning of BHM in the UK, and is an opportunity to recognise the foundations laid by some of the most accomplished BAME individuals, as well as the paths being forged by the next generation.

Emily Sheffield, Editor of The Evening Standard, commented: “The Evening Standard is proud to work with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex on this project. London is one of the most diverse cities in the world, but it has not always been a place where voices are heard equally.

The vast steps that have been made to improve BAME representation within every level of society, from education to entertainment, to the media and politics, should be widely applauded, but as Meghan and Harry note, there is still more to do. Whether racism is purposeful or engendered by society we need to join together to challenge it.”

To follow the conversation on social media, use: #BHMNextGenTrailblazers