Black history lives with Audrey Ntetani every day of the year, not just during the month of February.

The second-year Brock Critical Criminology student-athlete views Black history as a road map to how she can thrive in her life.

“Black history taught me many lessons, equipped me with the tools needed to express myself and love myself, and allowed me to live in my truth,” said Ntetani, who plays on the varsity women’s basketball team.

She encourages others to embrace everything Black culture has done to influence the world through sport, books, dance, music, fashion and other forms of art.

And that advice applies beyond Black History Month and African Heritage Month in February.

“Black history teaches me where I’ve come from and what my ancestors have overcome to pave the road for me to stand here and be who I am,” Ntetani said. “I think a meaningful way to celebrate would be for people to educate themselves on the past. I believe that will lead to a better appreciation for the present.”

Brock University celebrates Black History Month and African Heritage Month in February to foster a culture of inclusivity while acknowledging the achievements of Black Canadians and beyond. A developing list of events taking place throughout the month is available on ExperienceBU.

On Feb. 1, Brock Sports and Recreation launched a fundraiser for its Black/Indigenous Heritage Student-Athlete (BIHS) bursary through proceeds of an ‘All for Change’ T-shirt and tickets to varsity home games.

Ten dollars from each shirt sold will go directly towards the BIHS bursary. Visit the online store to place an order.

The University’s sense of community is one of the many reasons Ntetani chose to attend and compete for the Badgers.

“One of the primary reasons I chose Brock was because of its diversity. There are many clubs here that explore and celebrate so many different cultures and groups of people,” she said. “My time here has been refreshing. I’ve been able to connect with many genuine and loving people.”

If Black history is the road map to Ntetani’s life than her mother, Fifi Kumbi, is the compass.

“My mom is a resilient woman. She never backs down from a challenge. While I was growing up, she always found a way to make things work,” Ntetani said. “She always said that ‘God never puts anything on you that he doesn’t believe u can’t handle or overcome.’ She taught me to never give up and to face my challenges head on, as I can handle anything that is thrown my way.”