What Black History Month means to me: Sami Mutahar

But Black History Month also has special meaning to many of us as individuals, like Sami Mutahar, a Analyst on our Commercial Financing team. Sami’s thoughts, proudly presented below, add an all-important and informative personal perspective to our celebrations. 

It’s an opportunity to honour and celebrate the rich contributions, achievements, and resilience of Black individuals throughout history. It is also a time to acknowledge the struggles against systemic inequities and reflect on how these histories have shaped our present. For me, it’s a reminder of the power of education, representation, and the ongoing journey toward equality.

That it’s not just about the past; it’s about recognizing the cultural, social, and economic contributions of Black communities that continue to influence society today and into the future. It’s a chance for all of us to learn, listen, and engage in meaningful conversations that promote understanding and allyship. By appreciating these stories and lessons, we can continue to make First National, and other companies as well, mindful of the contributions Black individuals make in their roles. 

For me, celebrating Black history doesn’t just happen in one month; it’s something that deserves continuous attention throughout the year. As a first-generation son of immigrants, I’ve always found ways to continue be mindful and proud of where I’m from.

In my professional career, my main role model is my father. As cliche as it sounds, he worked hard and succeeded tremendously in his field to give my siblings and I a great upbringing. Although retired for over 10 years, he continues to work and reach milestones. I’d have to give all the credit for who I am as a professional to him and my mother. Their support meant everything to me and it is something I’ll never take for granted.