Black History Month: Meet two community groups celebrating Black identity
During Black History Month, two community groups—AfroSocial and Respect The Pace—are redefining professional networking and running for Black people. AfroSocial connects remote tech workers and entrepreneurs across the UK and abroad, while Respect The Pace offers inclusive long‑run events in London…
Black History Month has spotlighted two grassroots organisations that are reshaping how Black professionals and athletes connect, collaborate and celebrate their heritage. AfroSocial, a professional networking hub, and Respect The Pace, a London‑based long‑run club, both began in 2024 and have quickly expanded beyond their initial local footprints.
AfroSocial: Bridging Work, Play and Representation
Founded in Manchester by David Chipfupà and a close friend, AfroSocial started as a simple meet‑up for remote tech workers. The idea was to give Black professionals a space to network without the formalities of corporate events. From a handful of gatherings in co‑working spaces, the group has grown into a vibrant community that hosts events in Manchester, Birmingham, London, Australia, Dubai and the United States.
Chipfupà explains that the core mission is to “help Black professionals and business owners connect.” The organisation deliberately introduces members to activities that are rarely marketed to Black audiences, such as hiking, golf and Pilates. By doing so, AfroSocial acts as a first base for those who may feel underrepresented in mainstream leisure activities.
Today, AfroSocial averages five to six events per month across different regions. The variety of activities—networking mixers, skill‑sharing workshops, and casual social nights—creates an environment where attendees can meet peers in a relaxed setting. Many participants cite the ease of forming friendships and professional connections as a key benefit. For newcomers to a city or industry, seeing people who share similar cultural backgrounds can inspire confidence and open doors that might otherwise remain closed.
Beyond individual growth, AfroSocial has begun to collaborate with employee resource groups that struggle to engage Black and minority ethnic staff. Chipfupà hopes the organisation’s data and insights will inform local authorities and government bodies, enabling broader systemic change. “We want to move from organising events to influencing policy and workplace culture,” he says.
Respect The Pace: Running as Representation and Community
In London, a group of five co‑founders—Moisés Fernando, Sope Ashaye, Michael Lemoru, Rydan Giraudy and Olu Odunlami—launched Respect The Pace (RTP) to fill a gap in long‑distance running clubs that cater to Black communities. The club focuses on making long runs accessible, social and enjoyable, with a strict “respect the pace” rule that ensures everyone runs at a comfortable speed.
RTP meets three weekends a month, starting with a social run before moving into longer distances. The founders believe that representation matters: “One doesn’t believe they can do something until they see someone like them doing it,” Fernando says. By showcasing Black runners of diverse cultural backgrounds, RTP encourages participants to explore new distances and challenge personal limits.
For members like Davina Nylander, joining RTP has transformed both her running routine and social life. After struggling to find a supportive running community, she found camaraderie and encouragement among her peers. “I wouldn’t have completed the Big Half marathon without RTP,” she says. The friendships forged on the trail have spilled over into everyday life, providing a network that many adults lack outside of school or university.
RTP’s impact extends beyond the finish line. The club promotes the idea that not every run needs to be about personal bests; it can be a social outlet, a way to meet new people, and a platform for cultural exchange. By creating a safe, inclusive space, RTP is redefining what it means to be a Black runner in London.
Looking Ahead: Growth, Influence and Inclusive Spaces
Both AfroSocial and Respect The Pace illustrate how community‑driven initiatives can foster representation, professional advancement and personal well‑being. As they expand, each organisation is poised to influence broader conversations about diversity in tech, the workplace and sports.
AfroSocial plans to partner with local governments to share data on Black participation in the tech sector, while Respect The Pace aims to inspire similar clubs across the UK. Together, they demonstrate that when people see themselves reflected in their peers, they are more likely to thrive.
In a time when representation matters more than ever, these groups offer a blueprint for how grassroots organisations can create lasting change, one connection at a time.
Why it matters
These groups show that inclusive spaces—whether for networking or sport—can empower Black individuals, foster professional growth, and build lasting community ties.
Key points
- AfroSocial connects Black tech professionals across the UK and abroad
- Respect The Pace offers inclusive long‑run events in London
- Both groups emphasize representation and relaxed, supportive environments
- They provide tangible benefits: friendships, job leads, and cultural exchange
- Future plans include policy influence and expanding community reach
Frequently asked questions
What types of events does AfroSocial host?
AfroSocial organizes networking mixers, skill‑sharing workshops, and casual social nights, often including activities like hiking, golf and Pilates.
How many runs does Respect The Pace hold each month?
Respect The Pace meets three weekends a month, starting with a social run and progressing to longer distances.
Can members of AfroSocial join if they are not in the tech industry?
Yes, AfroSocial welcomes any Black professional or business owner looking to network and collaborate.
.jpg?w=1120&h=630)
