What People Are Saying

Paul Crooks’ Black History talks and ancestry workshops have earned praise from corporate bodies, archives, community groups, schools, and libraries across the UK. His compelling storytelling, deep historical insight, and empowering approach to Black history continue to inspire audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

💼 Corporate, Archives & Community Feedback

TrustedHousesitters
Corporate Event | Diversity Learning Series, 2024

“On behalf of everyone at TrustedHousesitters, we’d like to say a huge thank you to Paul Crooks for his excellent presentation Black History for Beginners | The Legendary Slaves Who Abolished Slavery.

Paul presented the bravery of those who ignited the start of the abolition of slavery, focusing on each individual and their story—showing how their actions helped shape the world we live in today.

This is just one of many areas that Paul is an expert in, alongside being a published author and a pioneer in African Caribbean Genealogy.”

Dudley Archives & Local History Service

“I can honestly say that his workshop was one of the best of its kind I’ve seen… I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend his talks and workshops to other archives. We feel very lucky to have worked with him this year and would love to do so again in the future!”

UNISON Birmingham Branch, Black Members Group

“The audience was in awe of what he had to share and asked a lot of questions… still getting positive feedback from this event. People are asking, ‘When is he going to do the next one?’ It is nice what Paul Crooks is doing for the community.”

Hackney Central Library

“It was a fantastic event! Thank you.”

Queens Park Community School, North West London

“We received some very positive comments from staff, Year 8 history students, and also visiting parents.”

🧑🏾‍🏫 School & Education Testimonials

Chrysalis Multi Academy Trust, Brent (Deputy Head of Year 8)

“He challenged stereotypes… even the normally silent students at the back were putting hands up to ask questions.”

Mayfield School, Essex (School Librarian)

“Thank you for giving us such insight on Black History. The students and staff are still talking about how informative your talks were. You had the students engaged and mesmerised. I will most definitely invite you back to Mayfield.”

Northgate School, Ipswich (Deputy Head Teacher)

“Wanted to thank you for the fantastic workshop you ran at my school. The students were engaged throughout and I have had a lot of positive feedback. We’d be very interested in getting you in again to speak to our 6th form students.”

Rivers Academy, Hounslow (School Librarian)

“Paul Crooks came in and gave a Black History talk to our Year 8 and post-16 students. He really managed to engage them with his inspiring story about searching for his ancestral roots. The feedback has been extremely positive—there was even a queue of students wanting his autograph.”

Wexham School, Slough (Leader of History)

“It was a really valuable and positive day for our students.”

Jewish Free School, Middlesex (Subject Lead – History)

“Thank you for your work here… You really inspired the Year 8 history students. We hope to see you again at JFS!”

Oasis Academy, Croydon

“You again confirmed to me that the route to teaching Black History is through stories of resistance and triumph.”

Drapers Academy, Romford (Deputy Head of Humanities Faculty)

“I’ve had a lot of positive feedback from Year 8 history pupils. Hopefully, we can arrange something similar again.”

🌟 Endorsements

City of London Citizen

“Paul is first among peers advocating for an empowering Black history that increases the self-esteem of Black people and helps others to look at Black history through a more appreciative lens.”