VideoFrom coaches to Colin Kaepernick: Joe Gomez reveals his black role models for Black History Month
As part of Liverpool FC's Black History Month celebrations, Joe Gomez discusses the black role models that have helped shape him in both his personal and professional life, and the importance of representation.
The Reds defender speaks candidly about a range of inspirational people, from his dad and coaches at his first football club – Ten Em Bee – to Barack Obama, the first black President of the United States, as well as quarterback and civil rights activist Colin Kaepernick.
Talking about the significance of representation, Gomez says: "As a young black male, I feel that black representation and role models are so important – it's something to aspire to and pick up some of their principles and morals."
Discussing his dad, Augustus, and the impact he's had on his life, Gomez adds: "Looking up to him as a child, he was bigger than life. Being a father myself now, I can appreciate what that means."
You can watch Joe's interview in full in the video above.
Throughout October, as part of Red Together - the club's commitment to championing equality, diversity and inclusion - LFC and LFC Foundation have hosted a series of activities to celebrate Black History Month and recognise the invaluable contributions of black people to British society.
Red Together is part of The Red Way, which is the club's ongoing commitment to creating a better future for our people, planet and communities.