Community projects awarded funding to celebrate Black History Month

Council funding has been awarded to ten exceptional projects to mark Black History Month 2024.

The grants, awarded to organizations and individuals across the borough, will support a variety of community-focused initiatives, bringing people together to celebrate and reflect on the richness of Black culture and heritage.

Deputy leader, Economy, Culture and Skills, Cllr Kim Taylor-Smith said:

"We are proud to support these valuable projects that not only celebrate Black history but also showcase the creativity, resilience, and cultural richness of our community.

"These grants are an investment in bringing people together, fostering understanding, and creating spaces where everyone can learn, share, and feel inspired. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these initiatives will have throughout Black History Month and beyond."

From 19 applications, ten were eligible for funding with projects spanning art, music, storytelling, and wellness. They will provide opportunities for community members to engage, learn, and celebrate themes surround Black History in the borough.

Community Champions Project Manager, Ewa Kasjanowicz, from Volunteer Centre Kensington and Chelsea said:

"We're recognising the value that black communities have brought to North Kensington over the years, and how the rich culture has shaped a diverse, supportive and strong community in the face of hardship.

"By sharing stories, such as that of women's rights and social justice pioneer Amy Ashwood Garvey and the Basing Street studios were legendary Bob Marley recorded music; We hope to inform and spark conversations and interest around the legacy of some of our local landmarks and figures."

Funded Projects

• Volunteer Centre Kensington and Chelsea have offered free walking tours of North Kensington, highlighting the area's African and Caribbean heritage through historical landmarks and stories of local figures.
• Heather McDonald and Behind the Groove will offer a multimedia workshop, "Connect to Inspire through Art and the Sacred Drum," combining art, meditation, and African drumming. This workshop is designed to foster positive mental health and wellbeing.
• Dalgarno Trust will present a series of events featuring poetry, singing, African drumming, and a special guest appearance from Rastamouse author Micheal De Souza, celebrating community and culture.
• Cheri Coco CIC will lead "Narratives," an event series focusing on oral, culinary, visual, and musical storytelling, engaging local artists and volunteers to foster cultural connections.
• SMART and Chelsea and Earl's Court Community Champions will host "Black History Matters," featuring educational workshops, cultural performances, and discussions to inspire and engage the local community.
• The Gheez Rite Community Association will host an art workshop for young people, culminating in an exhibition celebrating the achievements of prominent Black figures.
• Brownbaby will organize "Generations Figures & Visions Artist Talk," showcasing the work of six artists from different generations, promoting artistic expression and diversity.
• Westway Yoga Kolektiv Dana (WYKD) will celebrate wellness pioneers in the Black community through a series of workshops focusing on Afrikan Yoga, Capoeira, and local music.
• Hurdles2hoops C.I.C will empower asylum seekers with creative workshops, highlighting Black artists through tote bag and T-shirt painting activities.
• Nova New Opportunities will host "A Living Library of Black Excellence," offering a platform for Black professionals to share their experiences and inspire attendees of all ages.
  

To find out more about the grant scheme, see our Black History Month pages.