Quote from Fergus McCarthy on September 18, 2024, 1:07 pm

As Wandsworth prepares to be The Mayor of London’s London Borough of Culture in 2025, the borough is embracing Black History 365 with its most ambitious array of cultural, arts, and heritage-based activities to date.

A Year of Cultural Celebrations

Wandsworth’s third year of Black History 365 cultural commissioning will support eight extraordinary creative projects across the borough from now until June 2025. Each commission has been awarded up to £2,000 to bring their ideas to life, with many events set to unfold during Wandsworth’s London Borough of Culture year, beginning in April 2025.

The Black History 365 cultural commissions aim to engage residents of African and Caribbean heritage in activities that resonate with their cultural identity and foster a broader understanding among the wider community. Artists and Black-led organisations were particularly encouraged to contribute, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and cultural enrichment.

“Every October, Wandsworth Council celebrates Black History Month with a fantastic programme of events. However, we believe that African and Caribbean history, culture, and heritage deserve recognition throughout the entire year. Our second year of Black History 365 cultural commissioning will continue to showcase the talents, stories, and experiences of the African and Caribbean diaspora from September 2024 to July 2025. As Wandsworth takes centre stage as The Mayor of London’s London Borough of Culture in April 2025, celebrating our borough’s rich diversity is integral to our vision,” said Councillor Kemi Akinola, Deputy Leader of Wandsworth Council and cabinet member for the voluntary sector, business engagement, and culture.

What’s On: Highlights from Wandsworth’s Black History 365 Cultural Commissions

Fée Uhssi: The African Fashion and Textiles Experience: Part 2

September 2024 – May 2025 Continuing from last year’s success, Fée Uhssi’s project explores Black and African fashion's vibrant history and cultural significance. The series of six workshops will cover various textile techniques, fashion design, and upcycling, culminating in a showcase of participants’ work and Fée Uhssi’s exclusive textile collection. Monthly workshops will take place at OSMO Battersea, with the final event scheduled for May 2025.

• Location: OSMO Battersea, 65 Nine Elms Lane, London, SW11 7EU
• Book via: Eventbrite | Fée Uhssi on Instagram

Pointe Black: Pointe Black Celebrates: Our Windrush Story

October - November 2024 Pointe Black’s young ballerinas will honour the Windrush generation through Afro-Caribbean ballet performances. Their journey from Jamaica to the UK will be depicted in emotional performances showcasing the contributions of this pivotal generation. Performances will be held at Southfields Academy on 26 October and 2 November.

• Pointe Black on Instagram | Pointe Black Website

Rebel Tales Theatre: Windrush Adventures

21 & 24 October 2024 This interactive show for children aged 4 to 8 invites young audiences to sing, dance, and engage in craft activities as they follow Dawn’s journey from Jamaica to England. Performances will take place at the R.O.S.E Community Clubroom and Wandsworth Town Library.

• Rebel Tales Theatre Website | Paula David on Twitter

Vibesquad Sound: The SW Sound System Legacy

October 2024 – June 2025 Explore the rich history of Battersea and Wandsworth’s sound system culture with Vibesquad Sound. This project will include a workshop series, a documentary film, and a celebratory event, reflecting the positive impact of sound systems on the local Black community.

• Dates and venues: TBC

Black Heroes Foundation: Black Heroes® Soul Food Café

January 2025 Celebrating Windrush Day, the Black Heroes Soul Food Café at All Saints Church in Tooting will feature music, dance, spoken word, and an open mic. This event will honour the contributions of Windrush Elders and their families.

• Black Heroes Foundation on Twitter | BHF Events on Eventbrite

Nzinga Dance: Roots & Branches

March 2025 Nzinga Dance will offer workshops on African and Caribbean cultural dances, including Soca, Zouk, and Calypso. Workshops will take place at Chestnut Grove Academy, with special sessions for International Women’s Day and over 55s.

• Further info & bookings: Nzinga Dance Website

A2ndvoice CIC: Wandsworth Autism Cultural Experience Fayre

2 April 2025 On World Autism Acceptance Day, A2ndvoice CIC will host a fayre at Tooting Leisure Centre, featuring workshops, sensory play, and interactive sessions that celebrate the cultures of Wandsworth’s autistic families.

• A2ndvoice CIC Website | A2ndvoice on Twitter

Intergenerational Music Making: Melodies of Heritage: Bridging Generations

September 2024 – October 2025 This year-long initiative will foster connections between care home residents, students, and community members through intergenerational music-making workshops. The project will include collaborative songwriting, music skill-building, and celebratory events.

• Intergenerational Music Making Website | IMM on Instagram