Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Stories
Black History Month 2025: Standing Firm in Power and Pride: Sheneille Mzaca's Journey in Biomedical Science
For Black History Month, Trainee Biomedical Scientist Sheneille Mzaca reflects on standing firm in power and pride, celebrating heritage, resilience, and representation in science.
The theme for this year's Black History Month is 'Standing Firm in Power and Pride', a reminder of heritage, resilience and the importance of representation. For those working in healthcare, it also speaks to the strength that comes with breaking barriers and being visible in underrepresented spaces.
We caught up with Sheneille Mzaca, Trainee Biomedical Scientist in Clinical Immunology at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, to hear about her journey, reflections on this year's theme, and her vision for the future of representation in science.
Stories
Inside and outside of the lab
"I have worked in NHS labs for two years and am really passionate about patient-focused research and the difference it can make in people's lives. I'm also big on mentorship and encouraging people from underrepresented backgrounds to see a future for themselves in science. I know how important it is to feel represented.
"Outside of work, I love travelling, cooking, and photography. Whether that's exploring new places, trying out new recipes, or capturing momentswith my camera, those things give me space to recharge and express myself in different ways alongside my career."
Sheneille on a recent trip to South Africa
Standing firm in power and pride
"This year's theme really resonates with me as a first-generation Zimbabwean British Black woman working in science. Standing Firm in Power and Pride is about knowing where I come from and being proud of the resilience it's taken to get here.
"In my career, it means showing up authentically, even in spaces where people who look like me aren’t always represented. It's about progress, both personal and collective, and recognising the impact Black professionals make across healthcare. For me, it’s a reminder to stand strong, celebrate my journey, and keep the door open for others coming after me."
Sheneille's path into biomedical science
"My journey to becoming a Trainee Biomedical Scientist wasn't straightforward. Early on, I worked in an environment that didn't feel very inclusive, which made me question whether I belonged in the field.
"The encouragement I received from mentors, both inside and outside of work, helped me keep going and reminded me why I wanted to be in science. Moving into the Clinical Immunology team at LTHT was a turning point. It is a more diverse and supportive environment where I have been able to develop my skills, gain confidence, and focus on work that helps patients."
An immunofixation gel from Sheneille’s work in Clinical Immunology
What keeps Sheneille motivated
"On challenging days, I remind myself that a bad day doesn't mean a bad job or career. I have a really good support system, and I genuinely love what I do, which helps me push through.
"I'm also motivated by the bigger picture. Breaking glass ceilings and creating space for others like me in science is important, and I know it will come with challenges. Thinking about the impact I can make, both for patients and for future scientists, helps me stay focused and keep going, even on tough days."
Sheneille’s feature in IBMS' Becoming a Biomedical Scientist video series in 2023
A message for Black History Month
"My message for Black History Month is that it is not just about reflection, but also about action. Representation and breaking barriers in science and healthcare are so important, and it is something I care deeply about.
"I want people to recognise the value of diversity every day, not only in October. Creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive benefits us all and unlocks innovation, empathy, and progress. It is also about resilience, standing firm in your identity and your goals, even when it is challenging, and showing that we can make a real impact."
