People, Places, Events   

The United Kingdom is a diverse nation that is home to a multitude of cultures, which have become deeply ingrained in society over the course of several centuries and waves of immigration. While some UK individuals are first-generation immigrants, the majority of the population in the African community are second, third, and even fourth generation. In order to cater to the needs of this vibrant community, an African Arts and Community resources centre was established in the

Ujima Radio, a popular radio station in Bristol, has been broadcasting on 98.0 FM since its launch in 2008. However, in 2010, there was a change in ownership as Ujima CIC took over the station's management structure after its parent company, CEED, faced financial difficulties. This change in ownership brought about a new era for Ujima Radio, ensuring its continued presence in the community.

Desmond Brown, a well-known figure in Bristol, has, since 2018, taken on the role of Independent Chair for the Lammy Review Group alongside Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens. With his background as the former chair of Bristol’s Commission for Race Equality, Desmond Brown was made responsible for providing strategic guidance and coordination among various partner agencies in Avon and Somerset to address racial bias within the criminal justice system.

Dr Mena Fombo (hon) is a founder, facilitator, film director and global speaker. She is deeply passionate about racial justice, political and social change. Each of her businesses are founded upon a core set of values and an unwavering belief that "I can make a difference." Mena supports great She is deeply passionate about racial justice, political and social change. Each of her businesses are founded upon a core set of values and an unwavering belief that "I can make a di

Keri Andriana A native of Bristol, Keri, spent her formative years in Southmead and received her education at Colston's Girls' School. After completing her studies at the University of Bristol, she pursued a career in law, eventually attaining the role of an adjudicator. Despite her success, Keri faced a setback when she was laid off in 2016. Encouraged by her family, including her two children and one grandchild, she made the decision to explore her creative abilities

Lynn Moreno, originally from Bristol, moved to Easton at the age of 13 from Knowle West, giving her a unique perspective on multiculturalism in the city. She has experienced both the diverse aspects of Bristol as well as the segregated views that were prevalent during her upbringing.

Sandra Gordon - Co-founder RISE Sandra Gordon embarked on her professional journey as an administrative assistant, gradually climbing the corporate ladder to eventually become the Head of site overseeing her own Call Centre. Managing a team of more than 350 employees in an industry predominantly dominated by males, and lacking diversity in senior management positions, was indeed a remarkable accomplishment for her.

Established in 2013, Rise, is a non-profit social enterprise founded by Sandra Gordon and Lynn Mareno with the aim of addressing the underrepresentation of black businesses on the high street. After crossing paths in a green room during a TV show where they were both working as extras, the duo embarked on a mission to highlight the existing creativity and excellence within a significantly marginalised segment of the urban population.

Part II - Daniel Kaluuya “There was clear racism in the industry in the UK,” he told a BFI interviewer last month, explaining that his recent career was a consequence of being forced to find work elsewhere and being offered opportunities he would never have in the UK. “I think that the centralisation of power within the UK industry is disintegrating … there are genuine, incredible talents and you can’t stop it. You can’t stop John Boyega. You can put up obstacles, but you can