Black History Challenge 2004    FAQ's

Who are the 100 Black Men of London?
The 100 Black Men of London (100 BMOL) is a community development organisation that has been in existence for two years. The organisation focuses on what we call ‘Four for the Future’; this being the core operational areas of mentoring, economic development, health & well-being and the education of London’s black community.

We have successfully run a number of programmes in all these areas, most notably, successful mentoring programmes. The life skills training and support provided for the young people in our programmes aims to enhance their education experience inspire them to broaden their personal and collective horizons and thus, empower them to seize control of their own destinies.

Today, the organisation comprises of members and volunteers who are committed to the growth and development of the organisation, in line with its mission and vision. Given the magnitude of the challenges facing our young people today, we are probably just scratching the surface, but we are excited about our programmes and their possibilities. We look forward to the future, because we believe that collectively, we make a difference.

What is the Black History Challenge (BHC)?
The Black History Challenge (BHC) is the intellectual property of 100 BMOL and has been adopted from the 100 Black Men of America’s ‘African-American History Challenge’. The rationale behind the American challenge is essentially an education scholarship programme designed to enhance the study of African-American history and to increase young people’s knowledge of the contribution African-Americans have made to the development of American society.

The BHC under the 100 BMOL has the same aims and ambitions as described above, the key difference being the focus on Europe and in particular, the African-Caribbean experience in the United Kingdom. It is also intended to increase the interest of young people understanding the legacy left to them and encouraging the living of lives worthy of that legacy.

What are the benefits of having a BHC?
The competition is designed to spur keen and heated rivalry. Yet, the competitive spirit is developed within an experience that will engender mutual respect and admiration among the competitors. This perspective is based upon the notion that able, prepared and dedicated people somehow develop an appreciation for each other’s abilities. The result is the development of an individual who knows, loves and appreciates him or herself, but who also admires excellence in others.

The BHC will also educate young people in schools and the wider community about the significant contribution black people in Britain have made in developing this country as a whole. In light of the new Race Relations Amendment Act 2000, public bodies, including schools have duty to promote race equality which is documented in their Race Equality Schemes. The BHC is an excellent opportunity for schools to embrace, promote, acknowledge and value the overlooked contribution Black people have made in the communities within British society.

Who is eligible to enter the BHC?
The 100 BMOL’s BHC is open to schools and youth organisation that reside in London and its suburbs; team members must be between the ages of 12-14. Only one team may be submitted for entry per school or youth organisation. Entry is on a first come first serve basis with a maximum of sixteen teams being admitted to the competition.

How can I apply to enter the BHC?
All applications can be submitted via the 100 Black Men of London website www.100bmol.org.uk

How will candidates be questioned?
Schools or youth organisations entering the BHC are required to read specific chapters from ‘Staying Power: The History of black people in Britain’ by Peter Fryer. This book is fascinating and well written. It traces the history of black people in Britain, who have made significant contributions to culture and history for several centuries. It also recounts movements against slavery and later against racism. Many things which are left out of the history books are here in this very serious and readable work.

What is the deadline for applications?
If you wish to enter the BHC, you will need to submit your form via the website as soon as possible and no later than Friday 9 July 2004.

How will teams be selected for entry?
Teams will be selected on a first come first serve basis. Team will be required to think of two team names. Teams must be named after a person who has contributed to the development of black British history i.e. Mary Seacole.

How many candidates per team can be entered for the BHC?
A team must be made up of two people. A contingent will be required in the event of illness or other emergency.

Are there any special requirements for children entering the BHC?
Team members must be between the ages of 12-14. Other than that, the only requirement is enthusiasm to learn!

Can more than one team be submitted from a school/youth organisation?
No. Only one team per organisation is allowable.

Round	Date	Time	Venue	Notes
Eliminator	Tbc Sept	14.00 - 17.00	tbc	2 sets of teams will play simultaneously
Quarter-Finals/semi finals	w/c 4 Oct	14.00 - 17.00	British museum	2 sets of teams will play simultaneously
Finals	w/c 11 Oct	17.00 - 20.00	British museum