This Black History Month, we celebrate athletes whose journeys inspire the next generation and highlight the importance of diversity in sport.
The 2025 theme, ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’, pays tribute to the resilience, strength, and commitment of the Black community — values shared by Kukri Sports and through our long-standing partnership with Loughborough University.
One such athlete is Georgina Forde-Wells, a British triple jumper and part-time Loughborough student with standout successes, including being crowned British Triple Jump champion in 2023, 2024 British Indoor Champion and Team GB representative at this year’s European Athletics Team Championships.
From Netball to Triple Jump: Georgina’s Inspiring Journey
“I was initially a netballer, playing for Loughborough Lighting age groups and England U19 squads,” she explains.
“But I tried high jump in school and loved it. Later, I had a go at triple jump in sixth form as they needed to fill a space, and I just loved it!”
Georgina’s love for training and competitive sport was always there. “I’ve always loved having a full-time training schedule – I wanted to be like a professional gymnast when I was younger. Sport was always what I wanted to do, it just took me a little while to figure out which one.”
Mentors Who Made A Difference
Georgina credits her teachers with playing a huge role in her development. “All my teachers saw potential in me and guided me from netball to triple jump. They inspired me to pursue sport at the highest level.”
Defining Moments
Georgina describes her 2023 British Championships gold as a defining career highlight. “That moment was incredible. I went into the champs hoping for silver, but on the day I knew I had it in me to jump big.
“I’d just returned from the European Team championships where it hadn’t gone my way, so I had nothing to lose but something to prove.
The following year brought even more significance. “Winning the British Indoors this year meant the world. Last season I struggled with injuries and couldn’t take off properly.
“I felt a lot of people had opinions on what I should have been doing, but I knew I needed time to find my feet. All the hard work eventually paid off.”
Standing Firm in Power and Pride
For the triple jump star, Black History Month is about recognising the sacrifices of those who came before her.
“It means a great deal to me. I’m in the position I am because of those before me who fought for a place on teams where they weren’t always welcome.
“It pushes me knowing that every time I compete, I’m adding to a much bigger success story.”
Georgina believes it is vital that sport continues to tell those stories. “By celebrating it, we recognise the contributions and sacrifices that have often been overlooked.
“In sport especially, we have a responsibility to keep those stories alive. Stories like Jesse Owens were an inspiration to me as a child and still are to this day.”
A Message to the Next Generation
With her ultimate aim being to represent Team GB at next year’s Commonwealth Games, Georgina’s words for aspiring young athletes are simple but powerful. “Whatever you want is achievable, and you should never underestimate yourself.
“Even if the journey takes patience, everyone’s route to success is different and that is enough.”
We are proud to celebrate athletes like Georgina Forde-Wells, whose achievements inspire the next generation and embody the spirit of Black History Month – standing firm in power and pride.