Leading with Purpose: Why Itsuka Kendo Would Champion Black History Month with Strength and Heart
Rise Beyond Legacy x My Hero Academia Final Season Preblogs
By Sterling, Founder of Black Cards Of History LLC
Introduction: More Than a Hero — A Voice for Justice
Out of all the students in Class 1-B, Itsuka Kendo stands out — not just because of her Quirk “Big Fist,” but because of her even bigger heart. She’s the one breaking up fights, encouraging collaboration, and reminding everyone what true leadership looks like. As someone who has experienced injustice firsthand and now uses my platform, Black Cards Of History LLC, to educate others about the richness of Black legacy and the struggle for racial equality, I deeply resonate with Kendo’s moral compass.
Her character is a blueprint for how we wish leaders would show up in real life — not for the clout, not for the applause, but because it’s the right thing to do.
The Organizer: Kendo Would Make Black History Month Happen
If there was ever a character in the My Hero Academia universe to spearhead a Black History Month initiative at U.A., it would be Itsuka Kendo. She wouldn’t sit back waiting for permission. She’d be the one rallying her classmates, collaborating with both Class 1-A and 1-B, and ensuring the events weren’t performative — they’d be powerful.
I can imagine her organizing everything from panel discussions and interactive trivia to a cultural showcase highlighting Black inventors, revolutionaries, and artists. She’d challenge people to do more than wear a kente-print pin or repost a quote. She’d ask them:
“What are you doing to amplify Black voices when no one is watching?”
And that right there? That’s leadership.
The Advocate: Justice, Equity, and Economic Empowerment
Itsuka Kendo’s sense of justice goes beyond classroom dynamics. If given the platform, she’d connect Black History Month to deeper, systemic issues — like generational wealth gaps, educational inequality, and barriers to Black entrepreneurship. Her sense of fairness would lead her to investigate why these disparities exist and how to empower change-makers to close those gaps.
She wouldn’t be afraid to challenge privilege, even among her peers. She’d probably bring in speakers, lead workshops, and spark conversations about intersectionality — especially regarding Black women in leadership roles.
She reminds me of the kind of people I’ve met in real life who don’t just “support the movement” — they move it forward.
The YouTuber: "Leading With Purpose – Black Women Who Shaped History"
If Kendo had a YouTube assignment, it would be nothing short of inspiring. Her video would likely be titled:
"Leading With Purpose – Black Women Who Shaped History"
I picture it starting with her in front of a simple background, speaking directly and earnestly to the camera. She’d talk about pioneers like:
- Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress
- Mae Jemison, the first Black woman in space
- Madam C.J. Walker, a self-made millionaire who reinvested her wealth into Black communities
- Tarana Burke, founder of the Me Too movement
Kendo would bring their stories to life through impactful narration, dynamic visuals, and a steady voice that commands respect. She wouldn’t just share their achievements — she’d urge her viewers to continue their work.
Final Thoughts: Strength Isn’t Just Physical
There’s something poetic about Kendo’s character. Her Quirk may give her physical strength, but it’s her internal strength — her empathy, her drive, and her deep sense of responsibility — that truly makes her a force. If she were real, I have no doubt she’d stand beside us in the fight for justice, not just in February but all year long.
Black History isn’t just history — it’s a call to action. And with leaders like Itsuka Kendo (fictional or not), that call would never go unanswered.