Insights Black History Month Stories: Arielle Bada
Some of our colleagues kindly
accepted our invitation to share their story during Black History Month. Here
is what they had to say.
Arielle Bada,
Project Controller, Engineering, Design and Project Management
1. Thank you for agreeing to
do this, Arielle. Can you briefly tell us about yourself?
Of course. I come from Benin and grew up in
Senegal. I’ve lived in Quebec since 2009. I came here to get a bachelor’s
degree in biomedical engineering at École Polytechnique de Montréal.
2. Can you please describe
your career path?
After completing my bachelor’s degree, I
worked in the health care system for five years as a biomedical engineer, first
in Quebec City and then in Montreal. I found out that I really like project
management. I decided to do a master’s degree at UQAM’s École des sciences de
la gestion. I subsequently saw a job offer that interested me in project
control at AtkinsRéalis . I’ve held that position since March 2019.
3. What does Black History
Month mean to you?
It enables the Black community to take a
moment to celebrate its history, appreciate how far we’ve come and celebrate
those who stepped up to build our societies and make a difference. It’s also an
opportunity for the general public to learn more about Black history and take
the time to reflect. As these topics are rarely discussed daily, this could be
an opportunity to explore the history and reality of other communities.
4. Who are you particularly
inspired by?
It’s difficult for me to name only one
person. There are so many people from the Black community—writers, actors,
directors, political figures, activists, engaged entrepreneurs, or even friends
and family—who, to this day, have taken action to make things change and
evolve.
5. Do you have a favourite
quote?
There’s one that I particularly like that I think represents Black
History Month very well: “Those who have
no record of what their forebearers have accomplished lose the inspiration that
comes from the teaching of biography and history.” It’s a quote by
Carter G. Woodson, who worked to have a Black History Month
celebrated in the United States.
Both because it’s important to tell the story rather than try to
erase or forget what’s been experienced, and because of the duty to inspire and
encourage future generations. It’s important for people to be aware of what
their predecessors have done and built. Unfortunately, very little is taught
regarding Black history in current history courses. Representation and role
models are what make us realize that we have our place and can accomplish great
things.
6. What’s the best advice
you’d give to others?
Never stop
asking yourself questions. Be introspective, read about the subject, be aware
of your privilege and actions. In my opinion, Black history shouldn’t be
limited to a single month of the year, nor should we even require a Black
History Month to celebrate the Black community’s history and accomplishments.
On the other hand, it’s already a good thing if this month can encourage people
to learn about the history of Black communities and become aware of the
discrimination they’re experiencing and the commitment of many to put an end to
it. “It doesn’t concern me” never helps move things forward. It concerns all of
us and, to the best of their ability, everyone should do their part by taking
practical steps. It should go beyond simply saying “It’s Black History Month,”
sending an email or sharing a post on social media.
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