Black History Month is about recognising the important contributions that the Black communities have added to football & wider society.

Gloucestershire FA’s Marketing and Communications Officer, Jacques Kitenge, shared his thoughts on what Black History Month means to him.

“October is a great month for me personally as I celebrate my birthday! Importantly though it’s Black History Month, where we shine a spotlight and celebrate the achievements, successes and contributions of black people in the UK.

“It's great that throughout the whole of October there is a focus on celebrating black history. The challenge is to not only recognise the achievements for a month a year but consistently acknowledge this on a monthly and yearly basis, not just in football/sports but in wider society.

“Football is amazing in bringing people of different walks of life and experiences together to enjoy themselves.

“Football has played a massive role in my life. From creating friendships, lifelong memories and now currently working in the industry.

“Working for the Gloucestershire FA in a comms role is a realisation of my ambitions from a young age. Growing up, I didn't see many black men or women working in sports media, but it is changing.

"There is more representation now. Being in my position and a part of this change, I’m hopeful I can act as an inspiration to others who may be interested in pursuing a similar career."