Meath councillor included in school book as history maker

Louise Walsh

A MEATH politician who made history by becoming Ireland's first female black councillor has been included in a new schoolbook for sixth class students.

Fine Gael Cllr Yemi Adenuga features in the Explorers Geography and Science book by Folens Publishers because she broke new ground in Irish politics in the local elections of 2019.

The Navan resident and former Gogglebox star was overwhelmed to see her face in a text book, saying that it 'was never in her wildest dreams.'

The Nigerian born councillor has been campaigning for better inclusion and diversity in schools and now sees this as the perfect way to be recognised by young students.

"When I was in primary and secondary school, I used to read about great men and women in text books, who made history and impacted their countries," she said.

"Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would one day become one of those change makers in a text book and be a subject of discussion in classrooms in Ireland.

"When I opened the school books and saw myself written into the history of Ireland, I shouted somebody wake me up," she laughed.

"Who ever thinks that they'll be included in a school text book - it's the last thing you would expect and it's so surreal

"When we find our true purpose and we learn to recognise opportunities that arise, using them to fulfil our purpose and impact positively, the world will see us. I feel like all my stars are being aligned and everything is working out for good."

Cllr Adenuga was successful in her motion at Meath Co. Council in recent months to tackle bullying and promote inclusion and diversity in schools.

"I was looking at a way to connect with students and what better way than to be in their text book!

"I'm now trying to look at ways to encourage young people to make friends from other cultures in their communities and schools and make that super cool

"It would be a big start in making inclusion and diversity the norm at a young age.