#SRtRCSpotlight: From Film Premiere to Anti-Racism Workshops
On Wednesday evening, the team attended the world premiere of Dan Egan’s “Transforming the Beautiful Game: The Clyde Best Story”.
The film was fittingly shown at the brand-new Sadlers Well’s East in Stratford, East London, next door to West Ham’s current home, the London Stadium. Hundreds attended to celebrate the remarkable and inspiring life of trailblazing Bermudan footballer, Clyde Best. This included friends, family, fans and colleagues of the trailblazing footballer. The film highlighted Best’s determination in overcoming adversity, the racism he experienced and the pivotal role his footballing prowess and representation played in changing the face of British football.
After the showing, an emotional Clyde Best was joined by a handful of contributors on a panel, included ex-West Ham teammate, and lifelong friend, Ade Coker. SRtRC had supported the film, with Honorary President, Shaka Hislop contributing.
The film told Clyde’s story beautifully and paid touching tribute to a pioneer and giant of British football and it was a privilege for us to attend this wonderful evening.
Throughout the week, the Southern Region delivered inspiring sessions to primary schools across the area, working with pupils at Roding Primary School, Hayes Primary School and Thomas Willingale Primary School
Through our “Fans of the Future” workshops, Key Stage 2 pupils explored important themes around racism, discrimination, and inclusion. The sessions encouraged young people to understand fairness, challenge stereotypes, and recognise the role they can play in being allies and being upstanding for those who are experiencing racism and discrimination.
Pupils showed fantastic engagement throughout, developing confidence to speak out against racism and a stronger sense of empathy for those affected by it.
Teacher feedback was overwhelmingly positive. A Year 3 teacher stated, “An excellent session that made complex topics accessible for our pupils. The children were confident in sharing their ideas and asking important questions.”
These sentiments were supported by a Year 6 teacher who said;
“The practical strategies given to pupils were particularly valuable. They now feel more equipped to speak up and support each other.”
At Hayes Primary School, teachers echoed these points on how the workshop was engaging and thought provoking. A Year 5 teacher said, “Pupils were fully involved and left with a much clearer understanding of racism and how they can challenge it, It was powerful to see the children reflecting on their own behaviours and language. The session has supported our wider school values around respect and inclusion”
The team on the ground commented that the workshops informed our young people.
Sessional educator Leon Braithwaite shared,
“It’s inspiring to see how open and receptive young people are when given the space to talk about racism honestly. These sessions are about planting seeds, encouraging empathy, confidence, and the courage to challenge injustice.”
Southern Regional Manager, Paul Hill added:
“The response from pupils and staff this week has been incredible. What stands out most is how willing young people are to engage in these conversations with honesty and maturity. They are not only understanding what racism is but also recognising their own power to challenge it. Education is key to long-term change, and weeks like this show just how impactful early intervention can be.
By giving our young people the confidence, and tools to speak up, we are helping to shape a generation that values inclusion, respect, and equality.”