A CANVEY schoolgirl has won a regional speaking award, for a “passionate and emotional” speech about what it is like to grow up as a black person in the UK.

Simisola Smith spoke about her experience of what it is like to grow up black, as part of Jack Petchey’s Speak Out Challenge.

During her three-minute speech, the 15-year-old said: “I grew up like the rest of you, eating ice lollies, watching cartoons.

“But being black in the UK is trying to fit in.

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“We’ve all experienced it, desperately trying to be like the rest, whether that’s buying the newest trainers or talking in a certain way. But being black is trying to fit into two different notions about who should be, and what you should look like.”

She added: “Most importantly, growing up black in the UK is belonging - belonging to a community where we can all confide in each other.”

The speech was given before a packed audience at Gable Hall School in Corringham.

It included several jokes, and references to food, drink, racism, bullying and rivalries between people whose families come from different African countries.

She wrapped it up by saying: “Community will forever be a part of us.

“And so while my experience hasn’t been perfect, I’m thankful for it - because being black in the UK is what’s made me me.”

The Castle View School student won the Thurrock and Castle Point regional award has qualified for the semi-final of the national tournament, and could ultimately win a £2,000 bursary for herself and £3,000 for her school.

Headteacher Steve Durkin, said: “Everyone in Castle View community is super-proud of what Simi has achieved.

“Castle View has a long history of being successful in this event and it is great for Simi to win this prestigious award again for us.

“Good luck in the next stage of the contest.”

Rhiannon Maskell, an English teacher at Castle View School, added: “Simisola Smith gave a really powerful speech about what it is like growing up black in the UK.

“Simi is an exceptionally hardworking student who spoke with passion, emotion, and humour about her experience.”