As Black History Month continues, today we are releasing our second podcast in our #ProudToBe series, featuring table tennis legend Des Douglas.

Des Douglas MBE, 11 times English table tennis champion, talks about his lived experiences in table tennis and his proudest moments throughout his illustrious career.

Listen to the podcast below.

Further weekly podcasts will follow through October.

Black History Month was launched in 1987 in London, as local communities sought to challenge racism and educate each other about Black British history. This year’s theme is Proud To Be.

Table Tennis England’s Diversity, Inclusion & Volunteering Lead, Zoiey Smale, said: “While it is important we celebrate everyone in our sport 365 days a year, key dates in the diversity calendar can also present as a good key learning opportunity, with everyone coming together and having conversations.

“Black History Month doesn’t just promote diversity, it helps celebrate it. Promoting diversity is bringing awareness, celebrating diversity is helping to convey that diversity is valuable.

“As a child I was never taught about Black history other than about slavery, which left me feeling not valued. Seeing people all over the world shine a positive light on Black history across the different industries and sectors, is empowering.

“I am hoping to see this as the start of a series of celebrations across the year to showcase how amazing everyone in our sport is.”