Sam Mandi (a.k.a. Sam Sandi, 1895?-1937)

Afro-Polish soldier and professional athlete Sam Mandi was born in what was formerly known as the German colony of Kamerun (today the Republic of Cameroon), circa 1895. During World War I Britain and France occupied the colony and Mandi joined the French army where he … Read MoreSam Mandi (a.k.a. Sam Sandi, 1895?-1937)

Wladyslaw Franciszek Jablonowski (1769-1802)

The astonishing appearance of a high-ranking Black military officer in late 18th century Poland who led troops across Europe and in the Caribbean is further evidence of the breadth of the African diaspora. The product of an illicit affair in Paris between British-born Princess Maria … Read MoreWladyslaw Franciszek Jablonowski (1769-1802)

Sizwe Lawrence Ndlovu (1980- )

Born in 1980 in apartheid-dominated Johannesburg, South Africa, Sizwe Lawrence Ndlovu was a member of a family of seven.  His interest in athletics began when he was exposed to the typical South African sports, cricket, European football, and rugby.  Once he became older, he discovered rowing, which would become his major sport. Ndlovu … Read MoreSizwe Lawrence Ndlovu (1980- )