Dr. Mustafa Ansari’s Post

excellence in action...

This made me smile from ear to ear! Although this post focuses on Eurocentric education system and the lack of diversity of teachers. FACTS! I am reflective of what I/we do have. As my son sits his last GCSE exam tomorrow, I am reflective of how important it is to celebrate 🥳 the big and small wins in our children. Reflecting on how important it is, to see representation, that demonstrates anything is possible. for my son, he has an army of Black Excellence in his parents, Aunty,Uncles, cousins and close friends. Putting aside the lack of diversity in teachers for a moment. What if a child or young people wasn’t celebrated for their wins, for their achievements, for being an awesome human being. What if there wasn’t a trusted adult to speak life into a young person, to demonstrate anything is possible? Well we know the answer (I’m making an assumption you know the answer!) Unless you live under a rock 🪨, the rise in MH amongst children and young people, the lack of vital youth provision. This isn’t just about funding. This is also about community. African proverb “a person is a person because of other people” Which means I am, because you are. Anything and everything is possible.

This popped up on my feed this morning, and what better day than Do it for Dolly Day. Today is an important reminder of the profound impact small acts of kindness can have someone’s life. In a world where everyone wears a different mask, it’s easy to overlook the battles others may be facing behind their smiles. Remember that kindness has the power to uplift, heal, and restore faith. You never know the weight that someone may be carrying or the battles they are silently facing. Let’s make a conscious effort to spread kindness like wildfire. By extending kindness, we create a ripple effect that can transform someone’s entire day, or potentially their life. Let’s honour the memory of Dolly Everett by being beacons of kindness in a sometimes dark world. Let’s make our kindness our default mode of operation, not just today, but every day. One of my all time favourite quotes that is etched in my brain is ‘Kindness can make a bad day good, and a good day better’.

I was left thirsty after this film... Monk is a frustrated novelist who's fed up with the establishment that profits from Black entertainment that relies on tired and offensive tropes. The film tackles important issues of: 1. High achievement and social mobility 2. Family trauma, gender roles & aging parents 3. Authenticity and the burden of authentic living. Earning a wage and navigating a society that requires a bright mind to confirm to damaging stereotypes. I fully appreciate the popularity of the film. BUT I was left curious and disappointed by the ending. Here are my takeaways: 1. He conceded to the stereotypes by giving the studio the violent ending they required. Therefore playing into their hands. 2. I was unclear how he remedied conceding to the studios demand for flat lining the black experience 3. What's the takeaway message for aspirational black folks who battle with the same issues. Should we concede? #americanfiction #jeffreywright #cordjefferson I took away a few messages unhelpful messages. 1. Concede 2. Give them what they want 3. Get paid. And what was the symbolic.meaning of the man in the straw hat?

Looking for Black History teaching resources? Teach Black History with film! Check out our collection of standalone Black History lessons for compelling documentary and feature films. These materials can work for grades 5 to grade 12 plus higher ed. Get yours now. Link in first comment. 📚🎬 #BlackHistory365 #BlackHistory #Film #Education #Teachers

I highly recommend viewing this powerful documentary. Much to consider. Stream South to Black Power on Max https://lnkd.in/eaXtKeNZ

I highly recommend viewing this powerful documentary. Much to consider. Stream South to Black Power on Max https://lnkd.in/eaXtKeNZ

"Young, Gifted and Black" is a documentary led by Anthony Brightly that explores and celebrates Black excellence and empowerment, diving into the lives, successes, and challenges of Black individuals across various fields such as arts, sciences, sports, and more. Through interviews, historical context, and personal stories, the documentary aims to inspire and educate viewers about the rich contributions of Black individuals to society, while also addressing the obstacles they face due to systemic racism and inequality. Brightly's work typically highlights the importance of representation, community, and the undeniable impact of Black culture globally. https://lnkd.in/eaCptRJ

🎶 MUSIC OF THE WEEK: Childish Gambino – "This Is America" What do guns, viral dances, and chaos have in common? In Childish Gambino's "This Is America," they all make a powerful statement about systemic racism, gun violence, and the complexities of modern entertainment. Released in 2018, the song sparked not only praise for its genre-blending sound but also controversy for its bold social commentary. With an addictive rhythm that grabs your attention, the shocking visuals force us to confront the harsh realities often hidden behind entertainment.  🎧 The Meaning Behind the Music:  In the video, guns are handled with care, wrapped gently in cloth, while human lives are discarded without thought. This reflects America’s obsession with guns over people’s lives and references the mass shootings and violence that have become disturbingly normalised. Gambino suddenly shoots a Black man and guns down a gospel choir, reflecting the senseless and persistent violence inflicted on Black communities. This scene evokes real-life tragedies, such as the Charleston church shooting. Amid the chaos, Gambino and schoolchildren dance with joy, symbolising how viral trends and pop culture distract from deeper societal issues. The upbeat vibe masks the suffering, much like how the media diverts attention from real problems with entertainment. Gambino’s erratic dance movements (read: Jim Crow) reflect the emotional complexity of Black identity; a balancing act between joy and fear in a world that celebrates Black culture while failing to protect Black lives. In the final scene, Gambino is chased down a dark hallway, symbolising the never-ending struggle for survival in America, especially for those living in marginalised communities  🎯 Why This Matters:  "This Is America" holds a mirror to society, asking uncomfortable questions: Are we so distracted by entertainment that we no longer see the chaos around us? This message applies not only to art but also to business and life. Much like propaganda, distractions often conceal uncomfortable truths. True success; whether in media, leadership, or campaigns, requires looking beyond surface-level narratives to confront reality. 🎬 Watch the video here: https://lnkd.in/dbP8WiSW and let me know your thoughts. 👉 What other songs have made you stop and reflect recently? Share your recommendations in the comments, I’d love to hear them! credit: Youtube