Meet the team

Marie Costa

Chair

My passion is for equality and respect for all, education both formal and through none threatening activities in schools and in community.

I arrived in Portsmouth in 1969 having obtained qualifications in nursing and midwifery in other cities in England since 1957. Studied at Portsmouth Polytechnic, becoming a teacher in a secondary school and Further education college before running a business. Underlining my career, I became involved in community voluntary activities, founding and chairing many multicultural groups and especially the Portsmouth Multicultural group and African Women’s Forum. Have been on many Boards of Governors including the university of Portsmouth. Founder member of Portsmouth Black History group.

Have been awarded many accolades including Fellow of the University of Portsmouth in 2018 and being made the Lady Mayoress of Portsmouth 2022-2023.

 


 

Julian Charles

Vice Chair

I’ve been living in Portsmouth on and off since 1985. I’m originally from Guyana, South America. I was agricultural research scientist in Guyana, but switched to education when I moved to England.

I’ve worked in schools in the Portsmouth and Gosport area for twenty years in different capacities.

 


 

Sandra Charles

Secretary

In 2002 I started working for Portsmouth City Council and currently still in their employ with my present post as a Hate Crime caseworker. In this position as well as supporting victims of hate crime, I deliver Hate Crime workshops, presentation both internally and externally to professionals and community groups.

My community activities include, being the Chair of the local chapter of the national organisation of Stand Up to Racism (SUTR) which is a campaign group covering all forms of racism, injustice, and inequality.

From 2019-2021, I was the Chair of the now dissolved Portsmouth Black History Committee.

I am a strong union activist and current deputy chair of the local branch of UNISON and this year 2023 have been elected Deputy Convenor for the Southeast region.

 


 

Arlene Bunting

Treasurer

I was born and grew up in London. I am an ex member of the Armed Forces. I moved to Portsmouth in the late 1980’s after living abroad.

I am a retired legal professional and have been involved in several community groups in Portsmouth.

 


 

Leroy Osbourne

Committee Member

I was born in Clarendon, Jamaica in 1957 and emigrated to England in 1963 at the age of six. As the eldest of four children, I completed my education in London and spent my formative years in Wembley. At 17 I joined the Royal Navy, where I progressed to the rank of Chief Petty Officer, specialising in Electronic Warfare, Communications, and Intelligence. After a distinguished 22-year career, I was appointed Engineering Manager, overseeing the care and maintenance of the Royal Navy’s fleet of Destroyers.

While employed full-time, I pursued further academic qualifications, earning a master’s degree in advanced systems engineering. I currently hold a Chartered Engineer status and is a Fellow of the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET), mentoring aspiring engineers seeking chartership.

I am actively involved with the Portsmouth Black History Group since its early days. A committed Christian, I support my church by delivering discipleship initiatives for youth within the local community. I participate in various social and sporting activities and remain an engaged and dedicated member of my community.

 


 

Eldica Neck

Committee Member

I originally worked in the fashion industry before moving from Luton to Portsmouth in 2008. I fell in love with the city, its beautiful seafront and the diverse cultures that all abide happily in the city.

I became a member of the PBHG as I believe in capturing the how communities contribute to society through their everyday lives so that their history is not lost and goes on the inspire future generations.

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