As we celebrate Black History Month, we shine a light on the extraordinary female role models whose courage, leadership, and advocacy have reshaped the landscape of diversity and inclusion. we want to celebrate these inspiring ladies this Black History Month as they remind us that progress is powered by those who stand up, speak out, and create space for others to thrive. 

At We Are PoWEr, we believe that representation matters, that true change begins when we celebrate those who’ve opened doors and challenged boundaries. From classrooms to campaigns, and from Parliament to public service, these pioneering role models - Lilian Bader, Olive Morris, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks and Diane Abbott - embody the values of equity, belonging, and leadership that continue to fuel our mission today.  

5 Inspiring Female Role Models to Read About This Black History Month:

Lilian Bader: A Trailblazer in Service and Education 

Born in Liverpool in 1918, Lilian Bader was one of the earliest Black women to serve in the British Armed Forces, making her a true pioneer of her time. She began her story supporting troops as a canteen assistant at a Yorkshire base before progressing to train as an instrument repairer (a significant achievement in a period when opportunities for women of colour were rare). 

Her skill and determination earned her the title of Leading Aircraftwoman, followed by promotion to Corporal. After her military career, Lilian continued to break barriers by retraining as a teacher and earning a degree from the University of London. Her story represents not only personal triumph but also the strength of community and perseverance - proof that true empowerment comes from resilience and purpose. 

Harriet Tubman: The Conductor of Freedom and Voice for Equality 

Born into slavery in Maryland in 1822, Harriet Tubman rose to become one of history’s most courageous figures and a symbol of freedom and justice. Escaping bondage herself, she refused to turn away from others in need - instead, she led dozens of enslaved people to safety through the Underground Railroad, risking her life with every journey. 

Her bravery extended far beyond liberation. During the American Civil War, Harriet served as a nurse, scout, and spy for Union forces, using her knowledge and resilience to guide missions that changed lives. Later, she channelled that same determination into advocating for women’s suffrage, standing firmly for equality across both race and gender. 

Harriet Tubman’s story is one of unwavering courage and leadership, a legacy that continues to inspire generations to act boldly for freedom, empowerment, and inclusion. 

Rosa Parks: Courage in Quiet Defiance 

Born in Alabama in 1913, Rosa Parks became an enduring symbol of the civil rights movement through a single, powerful act of resistance. On 1 December 1955, she refused to surrender her seat to a white passenger on a segregated bus in Montgomery, a moment that ignited the Montgomery Bus Boycott and reshaped the course of American history. 

Her act was not one of sudden defiance, but of deep conviction. A long-time member of the NAACP, Rosa had already been working to challenge racial injustice and promote equality. Her quiet strength became a rallying call for others, proving that change can begin with one determined individual who dares to say “no” to injustice. 

Rosa Parks’ legacy endures as a reminder that leadership takes many forms and that even the smallest stand, rooted in dignity and belief, can spark movements for equality, belonging, and justice for all. 

Olive Morris: The Voice That Sparked a Movement 

Olive Morris was a fearless campaigner who devoted her life to advancing civil rights and social equality in Britain during the 1970s. At a time when racial injustice was deeply rooted, Olive became a leading voice for the Black community - challenging discrimination and demanding visibility for those too often overlooked. 

She helped to establish pivotal organisations such as the Brixton Black Women’s Group and the Organisation of Women of African and Asian Descent (OWAAD), creating spaces where women of colour could unite, organise, and be heard. Though she passed away tragically young, at just 27 years old, Olive’s activism left an enduring legacy - inspiring future generations to stand up, speak out, and lead movements for inclusion and justice. 

Diane Abbott: Leading Change from Parliament to the People 

When Diane Abbott was elected to the UK House of Commons in 1987, she made history as the first Black woman Member of Parliament - a groundbreaking moment in British politics. Throughout her distinguished career, Diane has remained a passionate advocate for racial equality, gender representation, and social fairness, using her platform to amplify the voices of underrepresented communities. 

Her decades of service stand as a testament to the power of visibility and leadership. Diane’s unwavering commitment to challenging inequality and creating space for diverse perspectives continues to inspire both emerging leaders and established changemakers across the country. 

Celebrating PoWEr in Action 

The stories of Lilian, Olive, Rosa, Harriet and Diane illustrate how courage and conviction can transform barriers into breakthroughs. Their lives mirror the heart of the We Are PoWEr mission - to advance diversity, equity, and empowerment through advocacy, opportunity, and community. 

We gather to recognise them this month, but we celebrate them always, may these remarkable female role models remind us that diversity and inclusion are not just principles - they are continuous acts of leadership and courage. These Black History Month ladies exemplify what it means to lead with purpose, strength, and authenticity. Together, let’s honour their contributions by building a future where belonging, opportunity, and PoWEr are open to all - a celebration of Black History Month role models who continue to inspire progress and possibility.