Ask BCA About is a monthly one-hour education and learning series hosted by subject matter experts on our YouTube channel. The sessions provide accessible insights and practical guidance on a range of topics exclusive to the Black Cultural Archives community.

Cultural & Ancestral Historian/Genealogist Selena Carty, will explore genealogy beyond family trees, focusing on blood, culture, nationality, history, and heritage. Key topics include:  

1. An introduction to genealogy and its broader significance.  

2. Practical steps to begin researching your genealogy.  

3. Strategies for continuing and documenting your genealogical journey.  

4. Creating family traditions rooted in genealogy.  

The event will also explore:  

- The connection between identity, well-being, and heritage for Black communities.  

- How genealogy shapes our understanding of identity in 2025.  

- The diverse meanings of genealogy and its significance.  

- How genealogical knowledge provides better language to understand our unique historical timelines.  

Selena Carty is a highly experienced consultant with nearly 20 years of expertise spanning corporate, academic, and community sectors. Specialising in cultural preservation, genealogy, remembrance of global wars, heritage celebration, and identity empowerment, Selena designs bespoke training programs, workshops, talks, and exhibitions for diverse audiences and settings.  

Don’t miss this session—register now and deepen your connection to your roots and heritage! Once you’ve purchased your ticket, you’ll receive access to this invaluable session on 27 March, so you can watch anytime at your convenience.

This session is free for BCA Black Card members and Friends of BCA by logging into your account on the day of the event after 3:00 PM GMT. Our members can access the full recording of this event as part of their membership benefits.

BCA is thrilled to present an exclusive virtual in-conversation event featuring the multi-talented creator, producer, director, and writer Antonino D’Ambrosio, as he discusses his award-winning feature film, Roberta. Join us for an engaging discussion moderated by Angela Ferreira, Managing Director of Douglas Road Productions, with special guest Maimouna Youssef (Mumu Fresh) adding her unique perspective to the conversation.

With input and cooperation from the late Roberta Flack, Roberta provides an intimate look into her artistry, life and triumphs over racism and sexism within and outside of the recording industry. Beyond her musical genius, Roberta Flack was a true champion of civil rights and social justice. Her artistry was inseparable from her activism, and throughout her career; she used her public platform to elevate the voices of marginalised communities.

Antonino D’Ambrosio is an award-winning filmmaker, author, producer, musician, and visual artist. His award-winning feature film is on music icon Roberta Flack.  Other D’Ambrosio feature films include Johnny Cash’s Bitter Tears Revisited, Let Fury Have the Hour, Frank Serpico. His films have played theatrically here and abroad and can be seen on many premium screening platforms. Some of D'Ambrosio’s books include A Heartbeat and A Guitar: Johnny Cash and the Making of Bitter Tears and Let Fury Have the Hour: Joe Strummer, Punk, and the Movement that Shook the World and Mayday, a collaboration with artist Shepard Fairey. 

 D’Ambrosio is the creator, producer, director, and writer of several docuseries, including The Play - made in association with the NBA, Inside the Touchline: Soccer Greatest Stories,  The Free Space and Rebel Songs. D’Ambrosio was a Dean's Scholar at New York University, Artist-in-Residence at the Contemporary Art Museum in Santa Fe, Artist-in-Residence at Long Island University, and Gallatin Lecturer at New York University, an honour bestowed upon a contemporary artist creating innovative and socially engaging work. His upcoming feature film is Bronx Special. 

As a production company, La Lutta Productions has supported over thirty productions and organised dozens of live events, including performances, art exhibits, and multimedia projects.  

Angela Ferreira joined Douglas Road Productions in 2017 tasked with broadening the slate into entertainment and factual. During this time she has successfully developed Soon Gone: A Windrush Chronicle, a series of eight monologues for BBC 4 and three commissions from BBC Music, as well as paid developments from Channel 4, UKTV and Sky.

During a career spanning over 20 years, Angela has worked across a broad spectrum of TV production; as a director, script editor, producer, executive producer and commissioner across arts, news, music, entertainment and live events. Angela has held Commissioning Editor positions at Channel 4 in Daytime, Factual Entertainment and E4 and was an Executive Producer in BBC Entertainment and Features.

A passionate champion of diversity and inclusion across the television industry, she is Chair of the RTS Diversity Committee and on the NFTS TV Advisory Board. She is also part of the Diversity Tax Breaks working group.

Maimouna Youssef, known as Mumu Fresh, is a GRAMMY-nominated artist, Indigenous Music Award winner, and U.S. State Department Musical Ambassador. A cultural leader and former Governor of the DC Chapter of The Recording Academy, she is a powerful force in global music activism. 

 Mumu Fresh has collaborated with icons like The Roots, Nas, Common, Bruno Mars, Anderson Paak, and Jill Scott. Described as a “Quasar” by TechN9ne and a “Quadruple Threat” by Black Thought of The Roots, she continues to push boundaries in art and spirituality. 

Her performances have graced stages at The Essence Festival, Black Girls Rock, Global Citizens, and Montreux Jazz Festival. She also played a key role in the Recording Academy’s Best Song for Social Change Award, presented at the 66th GRAMMYs by First Lady Jill Biden. 

A passionate mentor, Mumu Fresh founded Muniversity Studies, an online platform empowering artists to succeed independently in the music industry."

Don’t miss this engaging conversation—register now!

This event is free for BCA Black Card members and Friends of BCA by simply logging into your account on the day of the event. Don’t worry if you can’t join us live—our members can access the full recording of this event anytime after the event as part of their membership benefits.

Join The World Reimagined and Black Cultural Archives for a special screening of Community: Becoming Black and British at Ritzy Cinema.

This powerful documentary, created by young people in collaboration with industry professionals, explores hidden heritage through intergenerational conversations with community elders. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring participants from the project.

All ticket donations will directly support the vital work of Black Cultural Archives and The World Reimagined in preserving and celebrating Black British history.

Ask BCA About is a monthly one-hour education and learning series hosted by subject matter experts on our YouTube channel. The sessions provide accessible insights and practical guidance on a range of topics exclusive to the Black Cultural Archives community.

Join Black Cultural Archives on 21 February for an insightful virtual panel discussion on ‘Demystifying Black Philanthropy.’

A distinguished panel of experts will share key learnings, examine how Black philanthropists can foster empowerment, and discuss their vision for Black philanthropy in 2025 and beyond.

The discussion will be hosted by Cheryl Thompson, CEO/Founder of Orun Field Consulting. Cheryl Thompson’s career spans over two decades of strategic leadership with a keen focus on funding and fundraising for nonprofit organisations. As a former school founder, she not only designed and operated a high-performing charter high school but also secured critical funding streams that balanced immediate needs with long-term sustainability. Later, as a national director for charter school development, she coached leaders across the U.S., Israel, India, and South Africa in securing grants and philanthropic support to build visionary school models, scale regional footprints, and enhance educational equity. Panellists include:

Frank London Gettridge, President and CEO of the Philanthropic Collaborative for Education

Patricia Hamzahee, OBE FRSA, Co-Founder Black Funding Network & Co-Founder GiveBLACK

Heather Harding, Executive in Residence at Education Leaders of Color (EdLoC)

Gabrielle Wyatt, Founder and CEO of The Highland Project

Don’t miss this engaging conversation—register now and be part of shaping the future of Black philanthropy! This event is free for BCA Black Card members and £10 for non-members.

Black Card members attend this event for free - you can access it by logging into your Membership area on the day of the event. Click here to access your account.

Join Black Cultural Archives on 18 February for a virtual town hall as we unveil our 2025 strategy and reaffirm our commitment to sustainability, growth, and community impact.

This event will provide a platform for you - our valued supporters, partners, and community members, to hear firsthand about our vision for the future, ask questions, and share your perspectives. Your engagement is crucial as we navigate this transformative period. If you have questions, comments, or feedback before the meeting, feel free to email us at enquiries@bcaheritage.org.uk

Read more about the town hall here.

We look forward to your participation in shaping the next chapter of Black Cultural Archives!

BCA’s Youth Programme present ‘On Love’ - an evening of workshops, reflection and an opportunity to make meaningful connections.

For the past five months, our Youth Programme has been actively exploring and researching the rich history and experiences of Britain’s LGBTQ+ community. Confronted with the question of why they fought, wrote and protested for queer rights, many of the activists the group interviewed gave the same answer: love.

As part of the evening, attendees are invited to reflect on what the term means to them. Take part in writing love letters to explore how we care for and nurture ourselves, as well as how we celebrate self-love and its place in queer history. Or, form a vision board by collaging with copies of BCA’s archival material connected to Britain’s LGBTQ+ community, and think through your own relationship to romance, friendship and activism.

After booking your ticket, you'll receive a form to sign up for a fun and casual speed-dating event happening during the night. Engage in lighthearted prompts, and enjoyable conversations, and connect with other young people living in London. Please note: participation in speed dating is open to individuals aged 18-30.

Whilst this event is free, a suggested minimum donation of £3 is greatly appreciated.

This event is a collaboration between Black Cultural Archives and Lambeth Links.

Join Black Cultural Archives, in collaboration with Royal Holloway, University of London, for 'Animating the Archives, Part 3: Black British Literature and Theatre as Activism’ on 31 October. 

This interactive workshop will explore the materials in the archive that point to histories of activism through the work of Black British writers and playwrights, theatre collectives and publishers. Activities will be led by Lynette Goddard and Amber Lascelles, specialists in Black and Global drama and literature.

You’ll read and listen to poems and create your own ’remixed’ version inspired by the archive.

This workshop is perfect for anyone interested in exploring how Black writers and theatre makers have used their creativity to protest, disrupt, and craft alternative narratives from the 1980s to today. Open to young adults and older.

🗓️ Date: Thursday 31 October 2024

⏰ Start Time: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

This event is free to attend, however booking is essential and donations are appreciated

Applications have now closed

Join London’s Screen Archives and Black Cultural Archives for an exclusive opportunity to develop valuable skills and gain hands-on experience in archiving audiovisual collections supported by the BFI, awarding National Lottery Funding. 

Dates: 4th October-8th November

Time: 2:00-4:00 PM, every Friday afternoon

Location: Black Cultural Archives

Course Description: This 6-week course offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in archiving audiovisual collections at BCA. Participants will develop valuable skills in preserving and cataloguing historical film footage, with the opportunity to continue volunteering at BCA after the course. We are recruiting 6-8 volunteers. The deadline for applications is 25th September 2024.

Course Breakdown: 

Session 1 - Introduction to the history of film and film formats. 

Session 2 - Identification of different film formats. 

Session 3 - Conservation best practice - identifying vinegar syndrome etc. 

Session 4 - Collections assessment - using BCA collections, participants will learn how to write a condition report and prepare for cataloguing. 

Session 5 - Cataloguing – learn to catalogue on ArchivesSpace (cataloguing system) and learn best practice tips about metadata, and the ways LSA and BCA catalogue. 

Session 6 – Introduction to the importance of community archives and activist archivists. Along with an introduction to Film Archive and the LSA Undocumented project. 

Role Description for an Archive Volunteer: 

We offer a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in archiving audiovisual collections at BCA. Participants will learn key preservation and cataloguing techniques, and work closely with our collections team. Upon completion, volunteers may continue their role at BCA, applying the skills gained during the course. 

We are looking for volunteers who: 

- Are interested in learning the basics of film and audio-video identification and handling. 

- Are keen on local history. 

- Feel comfortable using online databases. 

- Are attentive to detail. 

- Want experience working in an archive. 

- Would like to contribute to creating an amazing new resource for everyone to enjoy. 

About us: 

London’s Screen Archives 

Managed by Film London, London’s Screen Archives is a unique network of historic film collections working together on a common mission: to enable Londoners to see their past come alive on film. We hold London’s rich film heritage, from feature films to the tiniest scrap of home movie, with particular strengths in public information films, newsreels, films from industry and business or amateur productions. Individually, these tell personal stories, of how life has been lived: collectively, they tell bigger stories of changing neighbourhoods, patterns of work, travel, commerce, leisure and governance.  Through our work these fragile and often-neglected films can be seen and enjoyed. www.filmlondon.org.uk/lsa                                                                        

Black Cultural Archives  

We are the home of Black British History, with a mission to collect, preserve, and celebrate the histories of people of African and Caribbean descent in the UK and to inspire and give strength to individuals, communities, and society. Located at 1 Windrush Square in Brixton, we offer a series of gallery exhibitions, educational programmes, and public engagement events, and provide free access to our unique set of archives, museum objects, and reference library. As leaders in the heritage sector, we are committed to advancing workforce diversity and decolonial archival practices.

Delivered with the support of the BFI, awarding National Lottery funding.

Join us for an engaging panel discussion where we explore how the Windrush story is told through various artistic mediums. We will explore the crucial role that artistic representation plays in capturing and conveying the experiences of diasporic migration. Discover the power of art in bringing to light the rich, complex narratives of the Windrush generation and its impact on cultural and historical discourse.

Panelists:

Kareen Cox is a versatile creative professional specialising in graphic design, illustration, book design, and photography. Her work is characterised by the use of bright colours, with a particular passion for geometrics, portraiture, and typography.

Kareen enjoys experimenting with unconventional color palettes, often choosing hues that diverge from natural skin tones. As a proud Caribbean artist, she emphasises the importance of representation in her work, believing that it is vital for both children and adults to see themselves reflected in the arts. Her designs include vibrant illustrations to considered graphic design, and soulful photography.

In celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Windrush docking, Royal Mail commissioned five Black British artists of Caribbean descent to create eight commemorative stamps. Kareen Cox was honoured to design two of these stamps.

Yvadney Davis lives and works in South London, she has a BA Fashion from Central Saint Martins and centres her figurative art practice on nostalgia, lineage, and belonging exploring her Caribbean British heritage. She has exhibited in a solo exhibition at The Black Cultural Archives, London with her series ‘Proverbs of a Windrush Child’. Her numerous group exhibitions include ‘Plurality Now’ at 198 Contemporary Arts, London, ‘Black & Bold’ at M&C Saatchi, London and ‘ING; Discerning Eye’ at Mall Galleries, London. 

The artist was a semi-finalist in Sky Arts, Portrait Artist of the Year 2023, and the recipient of Women United Art Prize for Painting 2022. She is currently working on a commission for the Serendipity Institute of Arts’ exhibition ‘100 Black Women Who Have Made a Mark’, creating 25 portraits of influential Black British Women for the show opening at Leicester Gallery in October 2024.

Whilst this event is free, we require a minimum donation to secure your spot. All proceeds go to Black Cultural Archives allowing us to further our impact in the communities we serve.

African Deeds Opening Night

Come and experience the amazing African Deeds, pop up exhibition, centred around the Brem-Wilson family collection. Hear from the donor herself, Mandy Parker-Sharp, engage with material from the collection and see it come to life with a short activation.

This launch evening is one to truly understand what is means to Collect & Activate.

About the Exhibition

In 2021, descendant Mandy Parker-Sharp donated the Brem-Wilson collection to Black Cultural Archives. This family collection includes early diaries, cassette interviews, videos, and hundreds of photos and documents, charting three generations of history.

This August, we bring the collection to life with the exhibition African Deeds.

The title African Deeds, inspired by Mandy's great-grandfather Thomas Brem-Wilson’s land title deeds brought from the Gold Coast, West Africa in 1901, signifies the collection's journey. These deeds were later used by Mandy’s mum, Nina Brem-Wilson, to find their African homeland in the 1980s.

African Deeds showcases a remarkable pre-Windrush immigration collection, emphasising the importance of preserving personal histories and archives.

Join Black Cultural Archives and Royal Holloway, University of London for the premiere of the short documentary film “Musical Genius in an Alien World: Samuel Coleridge Taylor Remembered” celebrating the life of composer, conductor, and activist Samuel Coleridge Taylor on the occasion of his birthday.

This film was researched at BCA’s archives and is produced by drama lecturer Dr. Samia La Virgne, featuring Coleridge Taylor’s music performed by MA student Aysh Atkins.

Join us for refreshments and an engaging Q&A session with the creative team from Royal Holloway University and Dr. Ayshah Johnston, BCA’s Learning & Engagement Manager. Explore a pop-up exhibition showcasing highlights from the Coleridge-Taylor collections held at BCA.

Whilst this event is free, we welcome a suggested minimum donation of £5. All proceeds go to Black Cultural Archives allowing us to further our impact in the communities we serve.

Join Museum X and Decolonising the Archive (DTA) for an interactive event, 'Reconciliation: Practices for Healing in the Archives' to explore wellbeing trauma-informed approaches to working with archives. Join us for this uplifting event where there will be a host of creatives, specialists, and archivists working in the field of Black archiving.

This special event culminates in a film screening and panel discussion of 'To Whom Does This Belong?' a collaborative short film with Museum X, Black Voices Cornwall & formerly, Cornwall Museums Partnership. The film explores Cornish history through the experiences of Cornish people of colour as they examine local archives and museum collections, including the PK Museum in Porthcurno and Kresen Kernow archives in Redruth. This narrative captures their raw reactions to diverse artefacts, from newspaper articles to journal entries by a slave captain.

The film serves as a crucial component of our efforts to lead positive change within the UK's cultural sector. Importantly, it aims to shed light on the trauma of racism, fostering awareness and encouraging archives, museums, and galleries to engage in reflective practices regarding the emotional toll of decolonial work and the development of trauma-informed approaches.

This event will be facilitated by Sandra Shakespeare of Museum X, and Connie Bell of Decolonising the Archive, and in partnership with Black Cultural Archives.

This FREE event features a tour of Black Cultural Archives, film screening, and a panel discussion/Q&A, concluding with reflections and an evaluation session.

Space is limited.

Ties that Bind: Reflections on Black Life, Surviving Hostile Environments, and Mental Health 
8th August 2024
Black Cultural Archives

Join Deputy Director, Hannah John for an insightful tour of the 'Ties That Bind: Reflections on Black Life, Surviving Hostile Environments, and Mental Health' exhibition. This tour explores the themes, concepts, and processes behind this powerful mixed-media exhibition at Black Cultural Archives.

The exhibition provides a reflective space on Black mental health, highlighting the intergenerational experiences of Black life in the UK. Central to this exhibition is data from UCL’s groundbreaking Ties that Bind project, the first of its kind to examine the intergenerational and broader mental health impacts of the Windrush scandal on Black Caribbean and Black African families, as well as the wider Black community. Led by Hannah, this tour offers an in-depth understanding of the exhibition's themes and the stories it tells.

“The 'Ties That Bind' exhibition is more than just a showcase of art.  It is a crucial forum for education and connection, aiming to ignite discussions that bridge generational gaps and foster a deeper understanding of the complex mental health challenges facing the Black community today.” Hannah John –MBA, FRSA, CMgr – Deputy Director - Black Cultural Archives.

Whilst this event is free, we welcome a suggested minimum donation of £5. All proceeds go to Black Cultural Archives allowing us to further our impact in the communities we serve.

Zine Making as Reflections on ‘Ties That Bind’
31st July 2024
Black Cultural Archives

Join us in creating your own Zine inspired by the themes of the Black Cultural Archives’ exhibition, ‘Ties That Bind: Reflections on Black Life, Surviving Hostile Environments, and Mental Health.’ Zines, deeply rooted in DIY culture, enable you to express your thoughts, feelings, and ideas through creative mediums like writing, drawing, and collage.

‘Ties That Bind: Reflections on Black Life, Surviving Hostile Environments and Mental Health’ is a mixed media exhibition reflecting on Black mental health and connecting intergenerational experiences in the UK. The exhibition explores themes such as the necessity of intergenerational engagement; the weight of Black existence on mental health; the necessity of seeking joy, and the impacts of the Home Office scandal on wider communities. This event is co-facilitated with Principal Investigator Young researchers who co-curated this exhibition. 

🎟️ Space is limited. Whilst this event is free, we welcome a suggested minimum donation of £3. All proceeds go to Black Cultural Archives allowing us to further our impact in the communities we serve.

Please note:

• This event is suitable for attendees ages 16 and up

Family Workshop
27th July 2024
Black Cultural Archives

Black Cultural Archives, in collaboration with Royal Holloway, University of London, invite you to a unique family workshop focused on personal archives and memory collection. This engaging event promises to be both educational and enriching. Attendees will also enjoy a complimentary light lunch. 

Morning Session 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: in this session, you will be asked to bring archives to life using personal memorabilia and group discussion. You'll engage in constructing a life narrative using five objects that represent your culture and heritage, personal interests, family history, or beliefs.

Afternoon Session 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: in this session, you will listen to a variety of musical genres, and be invited to respond through creative writing. Think about how music makes you feel and how that has changed throughout your life.

Space is limited. Whilst this event is free, we welcome a suggested minimum donation of £5. All proceeds go to Black Cultural Archives allowing us to further our impact in the communities we serve.

Please note:

• This event is suitable for all ages

• We ask that you bring 1 or more personal items for the first session that represent one of the following - your culture and heritage, personal interests, family history, or beliefs. These could be photos, toys, ornaments, or other valued items.

• You'll be given Polaroid photos and collages from the day to cherish and keep

Ties that Bind: Reflections on Black Life, Surviving Hostile Environments, and Mental Health 
13th July 2024
Black Cultural Archives

Join Exhibition and Events Manager, Jasmine Pierre for an insightful tour of the 'Ties That Bind: Reflections on Black Life, Surviving Hostile Environments, and Mental Health' exhibition. This tour explores the themes, concepts, and processes behind this powerful mixed-media exhibition at Black Cultural Archives.

The exhibition provides a reflective space on Black mental health, highlighting the intergenerational experiences of Black life in the UK. Central to this exhibition is data from UCL’s groundbreaking Ties that Bind project, the first of its kind to examine the intergenerational and broader mental health impacts of the Windrush scandal on Black Caribbean and Black African families, as well as the wider Black community. Led by Jasmine, this tour offers an in-depth understanding of the exhibition's themes and the stories it tells.

“There is a necessity to research the consequences of the Windrush scandal and explore these findings in a variety of outputs. The 'Ties That Bind' exhibition is emblematic of the power art has to portray diasporic intergenerational stories. It speaks to the joys, sorrows, and the vast in between of all the different elements of mental health for the Black community.” Jasmine Pierre – Exhibition and Events Manager - Black Cultural Archives.

Whilst this event is free, we welcome a suggested minimum donation of £5. All proceeds go to Black Cultural Archives allowing us to further our impact in the communities we serve.

The Friends of Windrush Square (FoWS), in partnership with Lambeth Council, invite you to the 2nd annual Big Caribbean Lunch on Sunday, 23 June, in Windrush Square.

The organisers plan to provide lunch for 100 members of the elder Windrush Generation and their descendants. Join us for a few hours of friendship, Caribbean food, music, fun, and storytelling from 12-7 pm.

Event Highlights:

• Keynote Speakers: Windrush Campaigner Patrick Vernon, along with various community leaders and special guests.

• Support Services: Assistance with the Government’s Windrush Compensation Scheme and citizenship support for the Windrush Generation and their descendants.

• Windrush Stories: Curated narratives celebrating the extraordinary experiences of the Windrush Generation.

• Windrush Day Celebration: Enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with music, delicious food, and captivating storytelling.

Ros Griffiths, Chair of FoWS, shared, “We owe them a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid – we also will be celebrating their achievements as well as acknowledging the struggles that they have faced.”

Join us in honouring and celebrating the Windrush Generation!

Join us to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of D-Day with the Book Launch and Panel Discussion on 'The Caribbean and the Second World War' by Colin Douglas on 8th June.

Explore this essential work that sheds light on the pivotal role of the Caribbean during World War II. "The Caribbean and the Second World War" places the complex relationship between the Caribbean and its colonial powers within a broader historical framework. Drawing from extensive archival research and firsthand interviews, Douglas exposes the depths of British racism and the colour bar within the armed forces before, during, and after the war.

Discover how the war directly impacted the Caribbean through U-boat attacks, rationing, and the increased presence of the US army. Explore the contributions of West Indians in the RAF, army, and naval services, and their influence on postwar Caribbean migration to Britain.

Join us for an enlightening panel discussion that explores this vital aspect of history.

Few stories resonate in the archives of Black history like that of Flight Lieutenant John Henry Smythe, a Sierra Leonean and British legend. His remarkable journey from the streets of Freetown to the skies over Europe exemplifies unparalleled courage, resilience, and extraordinary achievement.

Join us as Eddy Smythe, son of John Henry Smythe, recounts his father's incredible World War II exploits. From completing 27 missions as a Bomber navigator to enduring the hardships of a German prisoner of war camp, John Henry Smythe's story is one of heroism and tenacity. After the war, he defended soldiers in court, rose to become a King's Counsel, and was appointed Attorney General of Sierra Leone. His career also included globe-trotting encounters with Presidents and Princes.

In addition to this captivating tale, we will explore Sierra Leone's crucial role in supplying Britain with vital resources during the war. Attendees will also enjoy an exclusive preview of a new short film about John Henry Smythe's life.

This event is hosted by Black History Walks

Multi-Venue Disco Extravaganza in the heart of Brixton 

After the success of last year, Black Cultural Archives are very happy to announce support from Brixton Bid's Community Fund in putting together the community stage at Black Cultural Archives, as part of Brixton Disco Festival on Saturday 4 May.

Black Cultural Archives will be running a community stage in our wonderful courtyard from 2-9pm, with stage hosts Daydream Disco Stage.   The line-up for the day will include both established and emerging local talent from the British African Caribbean community.

Line up:  

• Daydream Disco Stage 

• Norman Jay MBE 

• Ella Knight 

• Marcia Carr 

The aim of the Community Fund is to support local organisations develop and realise their innovative ideas for making Brixton a better place for all. 

Manifesto for Black Futures will explore the multiplicities and power of Black lives, what Black futures look like, and how we can continue creating spaces celebrating the richness of Black lives. 

Novelist and screenwriter Catherine Johnson has been commissioned to write the manifesto, and artist Michael Salu has been commissioned to produce an artistic response to the manifesto, which will be revealed after the manifesto address. Curator Debo Amon will lead the roundtable discussion post address and art reveal.

Speakers include:

Catherine Johnson has been published for over thirty years. Her books for young readers have won awards, including Young Quills and Little Rebels, and have been nominated for the Carnegie Medal. She has also written for film, including Bullet Boy, television, and radio – her work has been nominated for Prix Italia and the Imison award, and written for one Video Game, I Am Dead. A born and bred Londoner she currently lives on the south coast at Hastings.

Michael Salu is a British-born Nigerian writer, artist, filmmaker, editor, and creative strategist with an interdisciplinary practice. His written work has appeared in literary journals, magazines, art and academic publications, and as an artist, he has exhibited internationally. He has extensively researched technology’s impact on culture, including numerous essays and talks with organisations like 5×15. He runs House of Thought, an artistic research practice and consultancy focusing on bridging creative, critical thinking, and technology, and is part of Planetary Portals, a research collective. His book, Red Earth, was published by Calamari Archive in October 2023.

BLACK TO THE FUTURE is an Afro-Futurist celebration of outstanding Black artists, a space for visionary imaginings to thrive, founded, directed, and curated by Irenosen Okojie. 

A limited number of tickets are FREE for Royal Society of Literature Members and Fellows.

BLACK TO THE FUTURE is founded, directed, and curated by Irenosen Okojie.
This event is produced by Black to the Future and is in association with Christie's. Income generated from tickets serve as a donation to Black to the Futures.

Join us on a literary journey at our upcoming creative writing workshop, guided by renowned author J.T. Williams. Explore the captivating life of Una Marson, a writer, poet, and pioneering activist, who made history as the first Black woman to work for the BBC, as featured in Williams' enlightening book, "Bright Stars of Black British History."

This event goes beyond traditional learning – it's a hands-on experience for the entire family. Immerse yourselves in Marson's compelling story and participate in engaging creative writing activities that bring her legacy to life.

This workshop is designed for ages 9 and above, promising an enriching experience for both young minds and their families. Don't miss out on this unique chance to blend education with creativity.

Black Cultural Archives proudly host Aniefiok Ekpoudom and his compelling work, 'Where We Come From: Rap, Home & Hope in Modern Britain.' This exploration delves into the rich history and profound impact of British rap and grime, shining a spotlight on the narratives of artists and communities shaped by this influential music. Ekpoudom's narrative seeks to cultivate a profound understanding of the pivotal role these genres play in offering solace, shaping identity, and instilling purpose in those who have felt like outliers.

This event is a celebration of the resilience, courage, and shared culture within these communities, painting a vivid and compassionate portrait of rap, identity, place, and the evolving social and human condition in modern Britain. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insight into the profound connections between music, community, and the human spirit.

Join us for a special conversation & reading with author Professor Nicola Rollock to celebrate the paperback release of 'The Racial Code: Tales of Resistance and Survival.'

Black Cultural Archives is delighted to welcome author Professor Nicola Rollock in conversation with Nels Abbey (author of 'Think Like a White Man') to celebrate the paperback release of 'The Racial Code: Tales of Resistance and Survival' published by Penguin Press.

Longlisted for the 2023 Bread & Roses Award for radical political writing, ‘The Racial Code’ uniquely interweaves storytelling with research to shed light on the hidden pain and cost of navigating everyday racism. ‘The Racial Code’ compels us to rethink how we can genuinely achieve racial justice.

The evening will begin with a special reading from ‘The Racial Code’ by actress Cherrelle Skeete, acclaimed for her roles in 'Hanna,' 'Harry Potter,' and the Young Vic's production of 'Beneatha's Place' and will involve audience interaction and discussion.

Join us for this exclusive Black Cultural Archives event and book signing. Copies of ‘The Racial Code' will be available for purchase on the evening.

Join Black Cultural Archives’ Youth Forum this February for the third and final instalment in a three-part event series, 'Making Space' designed to empower a new generation to connect with our rich archives. ‘Making Space: To Mobilise’ is a film and panel discussion, responding to the deterioration of community and seeking to mobilise collective action.

Join us on 24th February 3pm - 6pm for a unique opportunity for young minds to remember, protest, and mobilise. Secure your free ticket now for the finale event of this series before they sell out. While our Youth Forum events primarily cater to individuals aged 16-25, we welcome participants of all ages who share an interest in our themes. Don't miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience.