Founder of the 100 Great Black Britons campaign
Patrick Vernon was also the first director of Black Thrive, tackling mental health in Lambeth.
Campaigner, cultural historian, filmmaker, trained life coach and author.
Patrick has been awarded an OBE for improving the lives of Black, Asian and other minority communities.
He's had many memorable moments, including a successful campaign to celebrate Windrush Day on 22 June.
On that day in 1948, the MV Empire Windrush arrived at Tilbury docks in Essex. It was carrying around 500 Caribbean migrants – people who played a big part in rebuilding war-torn Britain.
Patrick has recently co-authored a book honouring the huge achievements of Black British people throughout history. You can win a copy. To enter, select the correct names of these 9 Great Black Britons.
1. What do you like most about your job?
"I enjoy a variety of roles.
- Associate Director for Centre for Ageing Better;
- Adviser of Equalities for Lambeth Council;
- Chair of Citizens Partnership of the Healthcare investigation branch;
- and author."
2. What is your proudest moment?
"The launch of my book based on my campaign 100 Great Black Britons."
3. What inspired you to the top of your career?
"My parents are Windrush Generation. They encouraged all the siblings, and now grandchildren, to work hard and not give up."
4. What challenges did you have to overcome?
"As a black professional male, we still face discrimination around the perception, and misconceptions, of being a black man in British Society."
5. How can we give young children a better start in life?
"Investment in early years around positive images and information about black people."
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