2024 Theme: Identity
Lord Mayor of Leeds International Day of Cultural Celebration 2024
The Lord Mayor of Leeds International Day of Cultural Celebration is a groundbreaking initiative introduced by Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, the 2024/2025 Lord Mayor of Leeds. This celebration aims to harness the transformative potential of Black History Month to foster unity, promote inclusivity, and celebrate the city’s rich cultural diversity.
The event aspires to move beyond traditional narratives, creating a shared space for Leeds’ 179 diverse communities to come together, co-create, and showcase their unique heritage through vibrant performances of traditional music, dance, costumes, and art. It’s an opportunity to honour the common humanity that binds us, strengthening bridges across communities and fostering trust and understanding citywide. The cultural celebration is a collaboration between Afrikindness, David Oluwale memorial association, Hamara and Leeds African communities’ trust. Sponsored by the UK Shared prosperity fund (UKSPF)
Cultural Celebration in Schools
Recognizing the importance of educating the younger generation, the celebration extended into schools, inspiring students to explore and embrace cultural diversity. Through workshops and performances led by Afrikindness, schools, communities, and leaders collaborated to instil values of respect, empathy, and inclusion, nurturing a more cohesive and harmonious Leeds.
The school celebration included:
- Educational Workshops: Engaging circle-time activities tailored to each age group, designed to explore themes of identity, empathy, and cultural pride.
- Drumming Workshops: A full-day drumming session where students learned traditional African drumming techniques, led by Drum Roots.
- Performance Showcase: Students performed their drumming pieces in a lively and moving display for their peers, parents, and special guests, including the Lord Mayor of Leeds.
Testimonials
‘‘Children were keen to learn more about Africa and were able to remember some of the facts that had been shared with them. It was great to have the Lord Mayor there to celebrate the performance – she was so enthusiastic and appreciative of the children’s efforts. Her bubbly nature was infectious. Children would have liked more time to ask questions….Children said they enjoyed all having access to enough musical equipment each...’’ Head Teacher, Gildersome Primary School
‘‘Being a mainly white British school, we are always looking for opportunities to develop cultural knowledge, appreciation and understanding.’’ Head Teacher Gildersome Primary School
‘‘This was a great, hands-on experience for the children. They were motivated and engaged in the workshop and were keen to develop their skills and knowledge of Africa.’’ Head Teacher, Gildersome Primary School
‘‘At Chapel Allerton Primary School, we are dedicated to preparing our pupils for a dynamic world as active local and global citizens. We strive to equip them with knowledge, understanding, and respect for diverse cultures, fostering unity and celebrating differences. This project provided an inspiring experience for our pupils and reinforced classroom conversations on diversity, identity, and heritage, promoting a strong sense of belonging for all.’’ Deputy Head Teacher, Chapel Allerton Primary School
For Schools
If you are interested in bringing similar cultural experiences into your school, Afrikindness offers workshops and cultural projects tailored to enhance learning and cultural understanding
Get in Touch
Email us at info@afrikindness.org to explore opportunities for your school