Pupils at a Paisley primary school have been inspired to dream big after hearing first-hand from successful people from diverse backgrounds that their ambitions should have no limits.
Youngsters at St James’ Primary School in Shortroods, Paisley, welcomed a group of inspirational visitors who shared their personal journeys, career experiences and the challenges they have overcome.
The message to pupils was simple but powerful: “If you can see it, you can be it.”
The school’s See It, Be It event formed part of its Black History Month 2026 celebrations, providing pupils from Primary 1 to Primary 7 with an opportunity to meet positive role models from a range of professions and backgrounds.
Six special guests visited the school to share their experiences and answer questions from the children.
Pupils heard from University of the West of Scotland lecturer Olamide Olusegun; ethnic minority group leader Susan Stewart; radio presenter George Tah; trainee solicitor Debbie Alhassan; midwife Benedicte Ndongala; and St Mirren Women’s footballer Praise Adebo.
Through their stories, the visitors encouraged pupils to believe in themselves, embrace their identities and recognise that their background or the colour of their skin should never limit their aspirations.
Reflecting on the importance of bringing communities together, Jambo! Radio presenter George Tah said: “Through my work at Jambo! Radio, I’ve seen how important it is to share stories and learn about the different cultures and people in our communities. I hope the pupils take away that getting to know one another helps us understand and respect each other—and that society is better when we work together.”
University of the West of Scotland lecturer Olamide Olusegun highlighted the importance of children seeing positive role models from different backgrounds, saying: “I hope the children left the event feeling encouraged to dream big, believe in themselves and recognise that their aspirations are valid. With the right support, they can achieve their goals.”
St James’ Acting Depute Head Teacher, Layna McGhee, who organised the event, explained: “We wanted our children to see themselves reflected in people who have achieved success across a wide range of careers and to understand that their aspirations should never be limited by their background or the colour of their skin.
“Representation matters. When children can see people who look like them achieving great things, it helps them believe that those opportunities are within their reach too.
“What made the event particularly powerful was the opportunity for our pupils to hear real stories from real people, ask questions and learn about the different journeys that have led them to where they are today.
“We are incredibly grateful to all our visitors for giving up their time to inspire our children. We hope they have left with the confidence to dream big, aim high and believe that anything is possible.”
