Chelsea FC has teamed up with Football Black List to mark Black History Month with a special conversation featuring Brighton & Hove Albion striker Danny Welbeck and Leon Mann, co-founder of the Football Black List.
The discussion focused on leadership, family values, community impact and the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation of football professionals. It also highlighted Chelsea’s ‘Beyond Blue’ initiative, which aims to foster a more inclusive environment, improve representation and challenge discrimination and bias in all forms.
During the conversation, Welbeck reflected on how his family has influenced his football journey, shaped his personal values and helped define his approach to leadership. He also stressed the importance of ensuring that people feel heard, respected and comfortable expressing themselves in a safe and supportive environment.
The pair explored the changing meaning of leadership in modern football, highlighting the influence of positive role models and the responsibility experienced players have to guide younger talents. Beyond performances on the pitch, their discussion emphasised how established figures in the game can help create pathways for others to succeed.
This year’s Black History Month theme, ‘Honouring Our Communities’, provided the backdrop for the conversation, underlining the importance of recognising the people, families and communities that contribute to individual success and collective progress.
Football Black List plays an important role in celebrating Black excellence across the football industry, with a particular focus on people of African and Caribbean heritage. Founded by Leon Mann and Rodney Hinds, the organisation works to improve visibility and representation while supporting the development of future leaders throughout the game.
Through this collaboration, Chelsea FC and Football Black List have highlighted the need for football to extend its impact beyond the pitch by promoting inclusion, celebrating diverse experiences and ensuring that the next generation has the support and opportunities needed to thrive.
The message from the discussion is clear: meaningful leadership involves listening to others, supporting communities and using influence to open doors for those coming through the ranks.