People of BCA: Meet Volunteer Manager, Karis Morris-Brown
We continue our look behind the scenes at BCA by speaking with our Volunteering Manager, Karis Morris-Brown and find out more about her favourite books, what BCA means to her and the fact about BCA she wishes you knew.
What’s your role at the BCA?
I’m the Volunteer Manager
What does a typical workday look like for you?
Reviewing volunteer applications, interviewing prospective volunteers.
Why did you join the BCA?
I have always had an interest in Black history and more generally the welfare and development of Black communities. I didn’t know how I would be able to put my interest and work experience together and then one day I saw the role of Volunteer Manager shared on BCA’s twitter page.
What is your favourite part of your job?Meeting new people, hearing their stories. It’s lovely seeing the passion people have for BCA being used to support its mission.
What does the BCA mean to you? What place does it have in the future of the Black British community?
It’s a place that values knowledge and it doesn’t hold that information for just the elite. We encourage the community to think about the importance of their personal archive, aim to inspire school children through our workshops and present Black history, culture and contributions in fresh ways through our exhibitions.
What should people know about BCA that they don't already?
Strangely many people know we have a café but they don’t know we have a reference library that is open to everyone! Wednesday to Friday 10am to 4pm!
A little birdy told me that you’re an avid book lover, what’s the best book you’ve read this year and why? What book would you recommend to someone who wants to start reading more?
How to Love a Jamaican by Alexia Arthurs
If your best friend had to describe you in three words, what would they say?
She’s amazing 😃
What’s your biggest pet peeve?
Open doors, if you are in a room close the door behind you!
What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve ever received?
Long cut draw sweat, short cut draw blood – Jamaican proverb