0208 1444 708 / 0207 043 7759

Toyin Agbetu

Nyansapo – Reclaiming Carnival

“Good sometin’ easy fe fling ‘way, but hard fe pick up” – African Proverb, Jamaica

Greetings, do you go to Notting Hill Carnival? If so then do you know who Kelso Cochrane is? What about Claudia Jones or Alex Pascal? You see whenever we go to carnival it’s similar in some ways as going to a birthday party where we are celebrating the life of a loved one.

Only this time the loved one is not an individual but a community and its spirit. In fact I would go as far to say - its soul. And so when we are dancing, eating, drinking and innocently revealing our flesh to TV cameras all across the world in this annual ritual of cultural expression, we are ambassadors of a tradition and a representation of the spiritual purpose our Ancestors brought over here from Africa, the Caribbean and the rest of the Diaspora.

Now let’s be really honest, do any of you feel that? Because I know that I don’t. Not anymore. Problem is, I still remember what it was like, when the vibe was tight.

Whenever I am in St Lucia, every Friday I try to head down to the small town of Gros Islet where there is a true street party. Hundreds of people come out, issues such as class is put aside as even police, thieves and politicians often join in what I can only describe as a political amnesty and become one with the spirit of the people. I believe there are more vibes, more love, more soul, in this weekly expression of cultural pride on an island of just over 150,000 people than an annual event attracting over a million ‘urban’ revelers. 

So what has gone wrong and how do we fix it? Well first I think we have to admit that Carnival in London HAS gone horribly wrong. Lets take our head out of the sand and admit some of us in leadership have for years been ripping out the roots and heart from organisations where Carnival is almost a family tradition and willingly allowed other cultural bandits to hijack it for their own agenda.

Many of the floats, the performers, the sound systems are doing us proud with the quality of their work, but whilst the body is firm, the spirit is almost dead. It’s almost like a massive minstrel show only one where we are collectively playing the character of ‘fiddler’ in Roots, and therefore willingly performing in ‘blackface’ for the amusement of massa.

How did this happen?  We could debate this for days, from the Caribbean Showcase fiasco to the squabbling of unaccountable pocket skimming committees desperate to please everybody but their own community. Perhaps we should leave the blame game for another day. I say this not because it is not important, quite the opposite, but because ultimately the responsibility to repair the problem remains with all of us.

We can’t change the fact that the same riot police who attend every year are itching to get into a fight with our young people nor we can we change the fact that there are politicians and sellouts who are rebranding carnival as ‘europes greatest street party’.

We also have to recognise (but not accept) that there are now many corporate pirates involved who promote music and products that have absolutely nothing to do with our culture and heritage and see our Carnival solely as a means to make money.

Could you imagine Saxon and Unity sound systems having a float during the St George’s day festival playing  roots reggae? It wouldn’t happen, a people who know themselves, love themselves and respect themselves would not allow it. They would not self defecate, nor allow others to self defecate on their Ancestors.

So going back to my opening question, do you know who Kelso Cochrane, Claudia Jones or Alex Pascal are? If not then why are we gate crashing their party without an invitation? The very least we should know before attending any party is whose house are we in, what is the purpose of the party? What are we celebrating?

You see becoming familiar with each of those names is instrumental in gaining a full understanding of the purpose and relevance of the institution we’ve come to know as Notting Hill Carnival. It’s not even difficult to find the answers, most of us now have easy access to library’s, dvds, and even the internet when it comes to doing basic research.

But what I can reveal is that Notting Hill Carnival has absolutely nothing to do with being ‘europes greatest street party’. It would be as ludicrous as rebranding The Hajj as ‘the ultimate desert trek ’ Christmas as ‘retails gift to the world’ and Egypt as ‘the oldest arabian civilisation’. Notting Hill Carnival… in fact all Africentric carnivals whether in the Caribbean, Brazil or Nigeria are about the spirit of remembering, reflecting and respecting who we are as a people.  Our history, our culture our Ancestors. By allowing some of us to betray this vision in order to just get paid, I believe we all risk becoming collaborators in the sale of our own souls. I don’t know about you but I for one, think we have a responsibility to reclaim carnival. If we don’t, who will?

May the Ancestors guide and protect us. Ase.

Toyin Agbetu is a writer, film director, poet, and founder of Ligali, the pan African human rights based organisation.

Who killed Kelso Cochrane?
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/4871898.stm

Nyansapo: News

Live Broadcast at Ayekoo

We hope to have our first ever live broadcast at the London launch of Ghana First, a non-partisan forum that calls on Ghanaians, friends of Ghana and pan-Africanists to help build a better Ghana. Logon to ww.ligali.org/nyansapo between 4-5 to listen or contribute.

The forum launch will take place as part of the next family-friendly Ayekoo Chill Out Session on this Saturday May 2, 3-6pm at Mission Dine Club.
www.btwsc.com/Ghana_First.

You are also welcome to send comments, or add your contacts to the Ghana First Who I Am online listing: info@btwsc.com subject heading: Ghana First.

Phone number for interaction will be:
Phone: 0208 1444 708
Skype: nyasapodrum
Email:nyansapo@ligali.org

Nyansapo: Update

Nyansapo: The Pan African Drum

Become Involved

• Spreading The Word
  Nyansapo is the response of the Ligali organisation following the continuing demise of printed media as an efficient means of distributing community news. We face constant attack, and so with limited resources have to rely solely on recommendations and word of mouth to grow and develop. Please encourage others to listen and if moved, to share their views with our listeners on air or through email.

• Pan African News Request
  Every week we start the Pan African drum with coverage of the weeks stories from Africa kindly provided to us by the African Development Institute. We would welcome a weekly digest from Africans with links in the Caribbean, South America and europe who could also provide us with a similar resource.

• News Update
  If there are any stories of events we have failed to cover or we have inadvertently published incorrect information about an issue then please contact us with updates and information.

Maisha Solutions: Screenings

Education and Community Seminar

Date: Wednesday 13 May 2009
Time: 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Venue: Stratford Campus of the University of East London, E15 4LZ

Toyin Agbetu writer, film director, poet and the founder of Ligali, the Pan African human rights based organisation where he is head of social and education policy, will screen and discuss (a shortened version of) his latest film, Maisha Solutions in which he shares the results of his three year journey across three continents in seek of solutions to the many problems African people currently face as a result of Maafa. Rejecting the classic ten point plan method, Maisha Solutions instead features contributions from various voices across the world with a strong emphasis placed upon independent learning and the empowerment of young people and women.

As this will be the final seminar in the series, and because it will include a screening, the seminar will begin at 6.30 and end at 8.30

The Maisha Solutions - Part 1 - DVD is a community resource forming the final part of the Maafa Series / Truth 2007 education programme. You can request a copy by going to;

http://www.ligali.org/aboutus/donations/resources.htm

clicking the Donate logo below and making a contribution to support our work.

African Remembrance - Living Icons

Marc Ona Essangui: Environmental Champion

Marc Ona Essangui

Deep inside Gabon's rainforest, is a sacred place bathed in a permanent rainbow. The breathtaking Kangou Falls have inspired awe among the local pygmy and Bantu ethnic groups for centuries. They believe that many of their ancestors originated in these frothy pools, explains Marc Ona Essangui, an environmentalist who has been jailed for his fight to protect Gabon's rainforest.

Ona, who has been an activist since he developed polio as a child – campaigning for disabled rights and the environment – says: "My fight is the fight of all the people concerned with the survival of the planet. Our forest is home to the most extraordinary biodiversity. It is also a huge natural pharmacy. To destroy it would mean the ruin of humanity."

Yesterday, Ona, 45, won the Goldman environmental prize, the world's richest prize for grassroots environmentalists, for his fight to save Gabon's protected Ivindo national park against development. He will share the $900,000 (£607,000) prize between the winners from six continental regions.

Source (Read More):
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2009/apr/20/rainforest-activist-goldman-prize

For more information:
http://allafrica.com/stories/200904201727.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/8000936.stm
http://www.goldmanprize.org/2009/africa

Sybil Phoenix

Sybil Phoenix

A profile by Yvonne Field

Sybil Phoenix is a woman who has helped transform literally thousands of lives and who makes a lasting impact on all whom she meets, which despite her taking it in her stride, has included royalty, political and other world leaders, religious leaders, senior diplomats, leading academics, Brockley neighbours, Goldsmiths’ students, local school children, and of course her own six children and extended family which warmly receives new members each year. There are so many things that Sybil has achieved that are within the public domain, however there are so many more things to which she has contributed that remain hidden mainly due to the acceptance of her life’s duty to be in the service of others.  I would like to recount a few of these achievements amongst the more commonly known ones.

For more info
http://www.marshaphoenix.org.uk/history.asp
http://ecs.lewisham.gov.uk/catfordgirlsbhm/5thpage.htm
http://www.lewisham.gov.uk/...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlY1m474QYk

Maafa History

Kelso Cochrane Memorial Walk and Screening: Grove Roots

Date: Saturday 16th May 2009
Time: 4pm
Location: 12 Acklam Rd, W10 5QZ
Adm: Free (first come first served)

Screening will take place following Kelso Cochrane memorial walk (starts 12pm Kensal Green Cemetery)

Grove Roots unearths the rise of the Notting Hill Carnival, the fruition of 'Frestonia' and the lives of unique local figures such as Claudia Jones and Peter Rachmann.Featuring the voices of renowned screenwriter Richard Curtis as well as other local musicians, artists, community workers and residents, the film tells the story of the Ladbroke Grove area from the 1958 race riots to the ethnically rich place it is today. Made by 8 local, young people with the help of the Octavia Foundation and the Heritage Lottery Fund.

N.B. time of screening is subject to change if procession over-runs

For further information, contact Kate Glinsman by email: kate.glinsman@octaviahousing.org.uk or by phone: 020 8354 5592.

Comments and Feedback

Writer and Community Activist Charlie Bins shares the results of his dialogue with a stubborn BBC on its support for the continued usage and broadcast of the racist N Word to young people across its networks.

From: Charlie Bins
Sent: Monday, April 20, 2009 1:17:13 AM
To: George Entwistle
Cc: corbynj@parliament.uk
Subject: Re: bbc takes control from stars
Importance: High

Its quite farcical that you have taken it upon yourself, 'not' to reply to my email. I am a 'license-fee-payer,'  one of many responsible for your lucrative wages. The 'P' word is mentioned, everyone is up in arms.

The beeb gets a little fine, even. But, when the 'N' word is said, on air, business as usual it seems.

Why is that?????

_________________________

Dear Mr Bins

Thank you for your note. I understand you have previously sent emails
to the BBC regarding the use of the "N word" on our TV and radio
programmes and that you have received replies from the BBC explaining
how context always defines the circumstances in which use of any
potentially controversial language would be considered. We don't ban
words. Context is always the key to considering their acceptability or otherwise.

Yours sincerely

George Entwistle,
Controller BBC Knowledge Room 7041 TVC, Wood Lane,
London W12 7RJ
Tel: 020 857 67019
Fax: 020 857 67071
e-mail: george.entwistle@bbc.co.uk

http://www.bbc.co.uk/commissioning/

_________________________

From: Charlie Bins
To: George Entwistle
Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2009 22:59

Not good enough. You banned Ross and Brand for so-called malicious and ignorant language. Thatcher was sacked for using the word 'Golliwog', in front of Europeans. I'm sure your workers wouldn't be allowed to say 'Paki' on or off air. Anti-semitic abuse of 'European' Jews wouldn't be tolerated, now would it?!

NOT GOOD ENOUGH!!!!!

Traditional Voices, Spoken Words

Donations Matter

Sunday 17th May 2009
Time: 1PM
Donation: £5 (min)

Get fit for summer and sign up to ADAP’s 25 Mile ‘Bikeathon’ Challenge. A charity event supporting education and health programmes in Africa.

Greetings, As summer steadily approaches (we hope),The African Development Association for Progress (ADAP), would like to invite you to take part in our 'Ride for Africa' Bikeathon charity event, in aid of our HIV/AIDS Health Development Programme in Ghana and our Youth Development Programme in The Gambia.

Why not set yourself a challenge and see what you can do to help raise money. Whether you're a novice on two wheels or an expert cyclist, we want you to come and join us for this community event and get fit for summer!

Marakisa Youth Development Programme
Constructing a building equipped with learning resources to support the education and development of the youth in the rural village of Marakisa, The Gambia

All participants will receive information containing details of the event, the programmes we are supporting and a sponsor sheet for participants to collect sponsors to help raise funds for a worthy course.

For more info:
Tel: 07904 495 387
Email: enquiries@adap.org.uk
Web: www.adap.org.uk

Support: 3D Project, Spanish Town, Jamaica

3D Projects is a Community Based Rehabilitation Programme based in four parishes in Jamaica —
St. Catherine, Manchester, St. Thomas and St. Mary. It is dedicated to the Development of persons with Disabilities. Gerlin Bean a serious Pan-Afrikan sister who returned to JA from England in 1987 and is the Director of this project has been working round the clock to keep it going for our disabled children in Jamaica and the project would benefit from assistance from us here in the UK. Over the years Gerlin has put in hours that most of us wouldn't even consider to keep the services operating, their sources of funding has repeatedly been cut over the years.

3D Projects
Dedicated to the Development of persons with Disabilities
Head Office: 14 Monk Street, Spanish Town, St. Catherine,
Tel.: (876)984-2840, Fax: (876)984-7808
Email: threedprojects@yahoo.com
Website:www.3dprojects.com.jm

Moyo wa Taifa was established to rebuild historical bridges and grassroots networks between the Continent and her global Diaspora. Moyo wa Taifa is dedicated to mobilizing international advocacy and solidarity on issues of Afrikan self-determination including Debt Repudiation, Women’s Rights, Reparations & Economic Justice.  

The 1st Moyo Solidarity Centre was set up in January 2006. The Accra Centre is the first of what we hope will be many of such  dynamic Pan Afrikan institutions located all over the Afrikan world. Our vision is to develop Pan Afrikan resource centres which operate as citizen’s hubs and provide capacity building services. Your financial support will ensure the success of this project. We are located in the UK and Ghana with future plans to expand to other regions in Afrika. Help nurture this vision into reality!

Moyo wa Taifa  (Pan Afrikan Women’s Solidarity Network) hopes you can support our work and contribute to the fund.   

“Tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it Today” - Omowale Malcolm X

TRANSLATE YOUR SOLIDARITY INTO ACTION

Please donate generously to the Moyo Solidarity Centre

Cheques payable to Moyo wa Taifa,  P. O. Box  27466 ,  London SW9 7WS 

Tel;  07757  060 313    moyowataifa@yahoo.com

Support: Baruwa's Primary School, Nigeria

Baruwa Community Primary School has 700 pupils, 7 teachers and 7 classrooms. The school was originally sited in a factory, but the school moved to this site in 2007 and opened on 5 May 2008 - it was not completed, but the Headteacher and teachers believed that it was "manageable". Government funds have not since stretched to complete windows, doors and plastering nor are there available funds to install toilets for the pupils or the teachers or provide a bore-hole for safe drinking water. Currently, pupils and staff go to the toilet in the bush area beside the school (which is often frequented by snakes) and drink water from an exposed well.

Please think about donating, you can send a cheque in the post payable to DIFN and post it to Ade Fashade at 84 Springfield House, 5 Tyson Street, London, E8 2LY. Many of these children are part of the OVC support programme and ICL want to do all that we can to make their lives better.

http://www.ipajacommunitylink.blogspot.com/

Community News

Nubian Spirit

BlackNine Films introduces their New Award Winning Documentary Film ‘NUBIAN SPIRIT: The African legacy of the Nile Valley’.

This is an amazing documentary, which unravels the fascinating and often magical legacy of Ancient Sudan. It shines light onto the Ancient African culture, history and spiritual mythology of the people from the Nile Valley. The film digs deep into Ancient Africa's numerous contributions to modern civilization.

As independent filmmakers they are looking for different ways to reach a worldwide audience.

CAN YOU HELP?

'Nubian Spirit: The African Legacy of the Nile Valley'
http://www.blackninefilms.com/docs/nubian_spirit.html

News Shorts

Campaign for Sean Rigg

The family of Sean Rigg, another death in Police custody, will be holding their weekly vigil outside Brixton Police Station. Thursday 7.30pm. If you are unable to make it feel free to pass on information to friends. 

http://seanriggjusticeandchange.com/News.html

Pan-African World View

Envoys back UN vow to combat racism, African-American groups blast Obama for US absence
FRANK JORDANS
Associated Press Writer
2:25 PM EDT, April 21, 2009

GENEVA (AP)  Over 100 countries agreed Tuesday on a declaration to combat racism and related forms of intolerance worldwide. The United States was not among them, prompting sharp criticism from African-American groups participating in the U.N.'s second global conference on racism.

The 143-point declaration was a broad call to fight racism and discrimination against minorities.

It also warns against stereotyping people because of their religion, a key demand of Islamic states who say Muslims have been unfairly targeted for their beliefs since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States.

The declaration reaffirms principles agreed at the U.N.'s first global racism meeting eight years ago in Durban, South Africa, when the United States and Israel walked out because many participants had taken the Jewish state to task over its treatment of Palestinians.

The United States and Israel also boycotted the second meeting in Geneva this week over fears it would repeat anti-Israel outbursts as happened Monday when Iran's president called the Jewish state the "most cruel and repressive racist regime."

Germany, Italy, Poland, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the Netherlands also stayed away from the conference.

The U.S. boycott did not sit well with the executive director of the Atlanta-based U.S. Human Rights Network.

"We believe that the issue of Israel was always a pretext," said Ajamu Baraka, whose group has in the past said the U.S. is ignoring persistent racial disparities at home. He said issues such as possible reparations for the effects of the trans-Atlantic slave trade appear to have contributed to the U.S. decision to stay away.

Officials at the U.S. mission in Geneva declined to comment.

"The boycott of the Obama administration both saddens us and angers us," said Jaribu Hill, executive director of the Mississippi Workers' Center for Human Rights.

"We will not let Mr. Obama off the hook simply because he stands inside black skin, or because his campaign served to energize and inspire thousands of young people and people of color, and those who have historically been locked out," she said.

Ejim Dike of the New York-based Urban Justice Center said by staying away, Obama had missed an opportunity to challenge Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad over his views on Israel.

Ahmadinejad' s speech Monday, in which he also accused the West of using the Holocaust as a "pretext" for aggression against Palestinians, caused all 23 European Union countries present to walk out of the conference hall in protest.

All but one  “the Czech Republic” later rejoined the conference and approved the declaration.

Home and Supplementary Education Conference - 6 June 2009

Greetings,

Black and Other UK Home Educators and the National Association of Black Supplementary Schools have got together to put on a conference to update the public about  home education and the availability of supplementary education for Black children. This event will be held at the Hackney Museum on Saturday 6th June 2009 from 11am till 4pm.

We are inviting individuals and organisations in these fields to join us and take part in this event so we can give parents the best information that is available. There is a wide range of media available for presentations including a Plasma TV and Powerpoint presentation facilities. This will be a FREE event with light refreshments available.

Please let us know as soon as possible if you would like to take part.

Black and Other UK Home Educators
Rehena Prior, Managing Director

http://www.blackandotherukhomeeducators.tk
E-mail: info@blackandotherukhomeeducators.tk
Tel:07960491963
Skype: rehenaprior

NABSS
Nia Imara, Managing Director

Tel:07958 348 558
info@nabss.org.uk
www.nabss.org.uk

Excelsior College: Affordable Independent Education

Take the first steps in your plans to educate your child, give them a head start with a solid early years foundation.Your child can now have an early independent education in a personalised, friendly, family atmosphere with common values. Our customising delivery of the national curriculum is designed to best suit their abilities and help them realise their potential. we achieve this by applying a lively and investigative pupil centred approach to learning.High Standards, high expectations and pride in self are nurtured to become a part of the children's identity.

Affordable Education Age Group 3-11Excelsior College is a non denominational nursery and primary school for children from 3 to 11 years old. The school was first opened in 1989. We aim for excellence in education and the development of every child’s unique potential. Building in each a capacity and eagerness to learn as well as the personal traits of character that is the basis of well rounded and forward going children. Achieved in the most unlikeliest of locations. Don't delay, call and visit us, we welcome your interest .Excelsior College, Selby Centre, Selby Road, Tottenham N17 8JLTelephone: 0208 365 1153

Website: www.excelsiorcollege.co.uk
Email: info@excelsiorcollege.co.uk

Home Educators Annual Camping Trip

Come and camp with us at Burnbake camp site Studland Bay Dorset

Where: Burnbake Campsite, Rempstone, Corfe Castle, WAREHAM, Dorset, BH20 5JH
When: 19-26th June 2009 - Come for the weekend Friday to Sunday or for the whole seven days
Prices: 1 adult with tent and car £8.00 / Extra adults(16 years and over) £3.00 Per person per night
Children (3-16 years ) £1.50  Per person per night / Pup Tent/Boat/gazebo/Extra Car/Extra Large Tent £2.00

http://www.btinternet.com/~burnbakecampsite/

Facilites
Two purpose built buildings, containing washing, showers, WCs sinks and for washing-up.Also laundry room with washing machine and tumble dryer. For mothers, there's a baby room with changing and bathing facilities. The site has a chemical disposal point for those with chemical buckets.A safe play area for children with slide and swinging tyres. A sports field for athletic campers. Pets are welcome. Dogs can be exercised in the adjoining woods, but must be kept on a lead on site.

Children remain the responsibility of accompanying parents/guardians at all times 

The campsite requires a 20% non refundable deposit with your booking form, the remainder due by 5th June 2009 

For more info please send an email to  baoukhe@gmail.com 

Ìyà-Ilé by Oladipo Agboluaje

Tiata Fahodzi
Africans in British Theatre

Tiata Fahodzi produces new work that constantly explores the richness and heritage of theatre sourced from people living within British African communities.

Every core activity emanating from this underlying objective, explores with its participants, a specific cultural perspective and its compatibility with the British stage.

For More Info:
http://www.tiatafahodzi.com/index.html
http://www.arcolatheatre.com/?action=pasttemplate&pid=100

Ìyà-Ilé

An unmissable theatrical party, Ìyà-Ilé is the long-awaited prequel to the hugely successful The Estate, which is currently being adapted for film. A vibrant mix of comedy, political satire and family intrigue, Ìyà-Ilé is packed with witty dialogue and the wonderful music of Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Sunny Ade and Ebenezer Obey.

Oladipo Agboluaje’s most recent plays include The Christ of Coldharbour Lane and the five-star hit The Hounding of David Oluwale. Tiata Fahodzi were last at Soho with the sell-out hit Joe Guy in 2007.

Contact: Soho Theatre, Dean Street, London W1 - 020 7478 0100

www.sohotheatre.com

Rites of Passage: Training, Healing and Meditation

Mashufaa Classes
Spirit of the Warrior

Date: Every Week
Adm: 1st lesson is free.  Thereafter, £4.50 per lesson.  Members £2.50 per lesson

Mashufaa is a martial are created for the mental, physical and spiritual upliftment of a generation of people who have become detached from themselves!  Mashufaa is about living a life with light through the sweat of training.  Sweat lets you know you are alive.

Remember Mind, Body and Spirit are one.  Train to live and live to train. Mashufaa Classes will take place from at The Albany Theatre (Plum Room) nearest Rail: Deptford or DLR Deptford Bridge.

Monday and Fridays
Time: 7-9:30pm
Venue: Lord Morrison Hall, Chestnut Grove( off Scales Rd), Tottenham, London N17 9ET
Travel: Tube: Seven Sisters (Victoria Line), Tottenham Hale / Rail: Bruce Grove / Buses: 243, 341, 149, 259,279

Wednesday
Time: 7-9:30pm
Venue: Boy Scouts Centre (Near Bruce Castle Park), All Hallows Road, London N17 7ADTube: Travel: Seven Sisters (Victoria Line), Tottenham Hale / Rail: Bruce Grove / Buses: 123, 243, W4

Email: info@mashufaa.co.uk
Website: http://www.mashufaa.co.uk
Tel: 07956 337391/ 07715 942734

Afrikan Yoga
Reconnect to the source classes with Pablo M Imani

Sunday 1-2.30pm, Fitness First Tottenham, 570-590, High Rd, Tottenham N17.

Monday 7pm- 8.30pm, Bizspace, Shakespeare Business Centre, 245a Coldharbour Lane, SW9,Room 101 (note please come 15min early for this class)

Tuesdays 8.30pm - 10pm, SOAS- School of Oriental & African Studies, Student Union, University of London, Russell Square WC1(Students welcome discount prices)

Wednesdays  6-7.15pm, The Alchemy Centre,Unit 101 Stables Market, Chalk Farm Rd, Camden, NW1

Are you free in the afternoon? you can always check out the healthy work out class.

Wednesday 1-2.30pm Thursday 12-1.30pm & 6-7pm, Brixton Recreation Centre, 27 Brixton Station Road, Brixton, London SW9

Contact: Pablo M Imani
Afrikan Yoga "Reconnect to the source" 
www.afrikanyoga.com
www.myspace.com/afrikanyoga
+44 (0)7972715170

Community Radio: Pan African

Pan African People's Phone In

When: Sunday
Time: 22:00 - Midnight
Where: Galaxy Radio 99.5 FM (www.afiwestation.com)

Number for on-air discussion: 07908 117 619

The Pan-Afrikan People’s Phone-in is a space for themed interactive discussions conducted over the airwaves and cyberspace.  The themes are focused around issues affecting Afrikan people both locally and globally. 

The Pan-Afrikan People’s Phone-in regularly features guests from revolutionary Pan-Afrikanist organisations.  From time to time others including non-Afrikan guests will be invited to contribute. The activities of all guests will be examined on the basis of their relevance to Afrikan people locally and worldwide.  Interviews and presentations with guests will set the scene for the more general discussion (in the second half of the programme) where listeners will be invited to phone in, ask questions and contribute.

Africa Speaks with Alkebulan / Sister Ekua (aka Esther Stanford-Xosei)

Where: Voice of Africa Radio (VOAR) / 94.3FM
When: Every Monday / Wednesday 8-10 pm GMT

Number for on-air discussion: 0208 180 2523

www.voiceofafricaradio.com

Activity Based Workshops: Political & Empowerment

Nkrumah @ 100 (1909-2009)
Pan Afrikan Society Community Forum Presents the 2009 annual theme and series of workshops
Afrikan Freedom means Defeating Neo-colonialism: Nkrumah @ 100 (1909-2009)

Time: 6:30pm
Venue: 44-46 Offley Road, The Oval, London SW9 0LS - Nearest Tube: Oval (Northern Line); Buses: 3, 36, 59, 133, 155, 159, 185, 333, 436
Adm: £Free

Afrikan Liberation Day (April) - Workshops
Youths are specially welcome – All free of charge

Friday 1st May 2009 @ 6.30pm
The revolutionary significance of May Day

Friday 8th May 2009 @ 6.30pm
International class analysis, European workers & anti-Afrikan racism

Friday 15th May 2009 @ 6.30pm
Contrasting the approaches of Presidents Nkrumah and Obama

Friday 22nd May 2009 @ 6.30pm
The 1966 anti-Nkrumah coup & US Satan in Ghana today

Friday 29th May 2009 @ 6.30pm
Building effective links between Continental & Diasporan Afrikans

When we were oppressed under slavery and colonialism our ancestors knew it; they knew that they had to remove these oppressive systems in order to be free.  It is a massive contradiction that despite the fact that we are actually living in the neo-colonial phase of history, most of us do not know what it is.  The problem this poses is that if we do not know it, we cannot understand it; if we cannot understand it, we cannot consciously do anything to challenge it; if we cannot do anything to challenge it, we cannot get rid of it; if we cannot get rid of it, we will remain stuck in it; if we remain stuck in neo-colonialism, Afrika cannot be liberated and we will not be a free and self determining people.  The critical task before us therefore, is to raise our collective level of consciousness of the nature of neo-colonialism and how to defeat it in Afrikan communities everywhere.

Community Screenings

Special Film Night: Premiere - 3 Men Standing

Where: Sat 02 May 2009
Time: 6pm – 9pm
Where: Lodge Lecture room, 100-116 London Road, South Bank University, SE1 6LN
Adm: Free entrance. See below for details.  Pls book in advance.

Film night hosts the premiere of 3 Men Standing - the story of the STAR walkers. 

On 26 August, to make a stand against knife and gun crime, 3 exceptional young men walked 131 miles from London to Birmingham in 4 days.....This is their story.

Marcus Garvey - UNIA The History & Toward Black Nationhood

Where: Centreprise, 136 - 138 Kingsland High St, Dalston, London E8 2NS
When: Sunday 3rd May 2009
Time: 2pm - 5.30pm

Greetings Family,

This is a polite reminder for our coming event this weekend at Centerprise, restaurant and bookshop. The programme took a break for a week to allow us all to take time and reflect on what had been learnt, to truly absorb the information and maybe enjoy some of the sunshine while it lasted. Starting back this weekend on May 3rd with a heavy-weight empowerment session, we look at the concepts of Black Nationhood exemplified by one of our greatest nation builders.

Join us for our screening of:

Marcus Garvey - UNIA The History & Toward Black Nationhood

This will be a superb event with plenty of real examples of how a global community can be built. So don't forget to spread the word to family and friends as your continued support is needed.

For anyone that hasn't had the opportunity to come to this superb event so far, this is a great chance to get involved before the end of this series on May 10th 2009.

Hope to see you there! Wishing you all the best on your path of continual improvement and empowerment.

Peace and Blessings,

Lecon Fatinikun
ADAP Team

Screening: Lumumba: Death of a Prophet

When: Tuesday 12th May 2009
Where: South London: PCS LEARNING CENTRE, 3rd Floor, 231 Vauxhall Bridge Road, London, SW1V 1EH. Nearest Train/Tube Station: Victoria (for map to the venue please click here).
Time: Doors open at 6.30pm. The screening will start at 7pm sharp!!!
Adm: £4 per person - ONLY 40 PLACES AVAILABLE

When: Thursday 14th May 2009
Where: North London: Parish Room at St Michael's Church, Bounds Green Road, London N22 8HE. (Directly behind the Church on the corner of Bounds Green Road) (for map to the venue please click here). Nearest Underground Station: Wood Green Station - Piccadilly Line.
Time: Doors open at 7.00pm. The screening will start at 7:30pm sharp!!!
Adm: £4 per person - ONLY 30 PLACES AVAILABLE

Black History Studies Productions presents “Lumumba: Death of a Prophet,” the award-winning feature documentary about African political leader Patrice Lumumba, who was Prime Minister of Zaire (now Congo) when he was assassinated in 1961.

Lumumba: Death of a Prophet offers a unique opportunity to reconsider the life and legacy of one of the legendary figures of modern African history. Like Malcolm X, Patrice Lumumba is remembered less for his lasting achievements than as an enduring symbol of the struggle for self-determination. This deeply personal reflection by acclaimed filmmaker Raoul Peck on the events of Lumumba's brief twelve month rise and fall is a moving memorial to a man described as a giant, a prophet, a devil, "a mystic of freedom," and "the Elvis Presley of African politics."

If Lumumba: Death of a Prophet is a film about remembering, it is even more a film about forgetting. It is not so much a conventional biography as a study of how Lumumba's legacy has been manipulated by politicians, the media and time itself. Haitian filmmaker Raoul Peck meditates on his own memories as the privileged son of an agricultural expert working for the regime which displaced Lumumba. He examines home movies, photographs, old newsreels and contemporary interviews with Belgian journalists and Lumumba's own daughter to try to piece together the tragic events and betrayals of 1960.

Run Time: 69 minutes
Director: Raoul Peck
in French with English subtitles

Food and refreshments on sale. Places for the film screenings are limited, so if you are interested in attending please reply as soon as possible to reserve your place. Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis, so don't delay.

In order for us to manage seating and room layout, we would be grateful if all who are attending this event could confirm their attendance in advance.

Please confirm via email info@blackhistorystudiesproductions.com how many of you will be attending this event and at which venue. Please can you also notify any cancellations made after confirmation.

Screening: Grove Roots

Date: Saturday 16th May 2009
Time: 4pm
Location: 12 Acklam Rd, W10 5QZ
Adm: Free (first come first served)

Grove Roots unearths the rise of the Notting Hill Carnival, the fruition of 'Frestonia' and the lives of unique local figures such as Claudia Jones and Peter Rachmann.Featuring the voices of renowned screenwriter Richard Curtis as well as other local musicians, artists, community workers and residents, the film tells the story of the Ladbroke Grove area from the 1958 race riots to the ethnically rich place it is today. Made by 8 local, young people with the help of the Octavia Foundation and the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Screenings also taking place:

Event will take place following Kelso Cochrane memorial walk (starts 12pm Kensal Green Cemetery) N.B. time of screening is subject to change if procession over-runs.

RBKC Town Hall, Lecture Theatre
Horton Street, W8 7NX
Friday 22nd May at 6.30pm

Lexi Cinema
194b Chamberlayne rd
NW10 3JU
Tuesday 16th June at 6.30pm

Community Events

Seminars/talks on African (Black) Britain

Venue: Institute of Commonwealth Studies, University of London, 28 Russell Square, London WC1B 5DS
Time: 6 to 7.30pm

May 13 - David Clover, Librarian, ICS: Dispersed or destroyed: archives, the West Indian Students’ Union and public memory

June 10 - Cliff Pereira Black and Asian Community voice and Local History - The Bexley example

II International Conference and Exhibition of Development Cooperation

Date: 27-29 April 2009
Location: Dakar, Senegal   

This conference will serve as a gathering place for NGOs, cooperation and development institutions, United Nations agencies, aid-receiving African countries, and firms that contribute equipment for cooperation, development, humanitarian aid projects and emergencies, so they can present their activities and exchange experiences. On the other side the conference will be a point of reflection on the development problems, especially in the African continent. Through conferences, roundtable talks and showcases there will be an opportunity to debate cooperation and development subjects.

For more information, contact Juan Carlos Collado, co-general director, at jcarlos.collado@ceet.es or visit http://www.developmentcooperationdakar.org/inicio_ing.html.

In The Mix: Sunday Free Jazz By Soweto Kinch

Date: Every Sunday from 29 March
Time: 2 – 5pm
Location: Rich Mix | 35 – 47 Bethnal Green Road, London, E1 6LA
Adm: £Free

Rich Mix is proud to present its continued partnership with jazz and hip hop artist Soweto Kinch. A selection of guest artists and performers, including Femi Temowo and Shabaka Hutchings, take residence in the Rich Mix Bar to create laid back sessions that are fast making Rich Mix the place to be on a Sunday afternoon.

www.richmix.org.uk/aandc_inthemix_soweto.htm

Programme

Soweto Kinch (www.myspace.com/sowetokinch)

Award-winning alto-saxophonist and MC Soweto Kinch is one of the most exciting and versatile young musicians in both the British jazz and hip-hop scenes. He has amassed an impressive list of accolades and awards on both sides of the Atlantic, including two MOBOs, four BBC Jazz awards and a Mercury Music Prize nomination. “Mr Kinch demonstrates what England has to teach [the USA] about narrative Hip-Hop. Don’t sleep on Mr Kinch.” (The New York Times) Shabaka Hutchings  (http://www.myspace.com/shabakahutchings) Barbados-born clarinettist and saxophonist Shabaka Hutchings is a member of experimental contemporary jazz group Zed U who are due to release an album mid 2009. He is also part of jazz legend Courtney Pine’s Jazz Warriors and has performed on his recent album Afropens as well as alongside jazz outfits Polar Bear, The Heliocentrics, Anthony Joseph and Tomorrow’s Warriors. “Shabaka Hutchings is going places.” The Guardian 

Femi Temowo  (www.myspace.com/femitemowo) 

Femi Temowo is a guitarist ‘par excellence’. After graduating from Middlesex University, where he studied Jazz, he was approached by Soweto Kinch to join his then brand new quartet. Femi is a regular guitar tutor at Tech Music School, a contemporary music institute based in West London. He also gives master classes and seminars all over the UK and Europe as part of ‘The Urbanator Project,’ a music education programme founded by violinist Michal Urbaniak.“One of Europe’s finest and most sought after guitarists” Time Out

www.richmix.org.uk

LC3 - Showcase by London Contemporary Dance final-year students
Arts and Culture Dance

Date: Wed 29 April | Venue 1
Time: 7.30pm
Location: Rich Mix, Shoreditch, East London
Adm: £5.00

LC3, the performance group for final-year students from London Contemporary Dance School’s BA (Hons) degree programme, comes to Rich Mix on Wed 29 April.

LC3 was established in 2007 to offer insight into London Contemporary Dance School’s work for aspiring students and young people through a series of free performances. For the dancers in LC3, the tour is an opportunity to gain invaluable performing experience.  Directed by Patricia Rianne, the company features 46 dancers, who alternately perform at various venues throughout the tour. 

Repertoire for the tour is comprised of work choreographed by the students themselves, performed alongside pieces by master dancemakers Richard Alston, Merce Cunningham and Siobhan Davies: 

1. -                             Alston’s Hymnos piece was created in 1988 and reconstructed for LC3 by former Richard Alston Dance Company member Kate Price, it has music by Peter Maxwell Davies.
2. -                             Cunningham’s Fielding Sixes consists of 64 phrases, repeated in sixes at a rapid tempo, each phrase being varied in movement and accent and has been reconstructed for LC3 by ex-Merce Cunningham Company dancer Jeannie Steele. 
3. -                             Featured in the first programme of performances the newly formed Siobhan Davies Dance Company gave in 1988, White Man Sleeps has been featured on the A-level syllabus and has been reconstructed for LCDS by former Siobhan Davies dancer Sasha Roubicek.

For press enquiries, please contact Shakira Hylton, Marketing Assistant at Rich Mix on 020 7613 7661 or via e-mail at shakira.hylton@richmix.org.uk

2009 LC3 PUBLIC PERFORMANCES

29 April                     Rich Mix, Shoreditch

29 & 30 April             Manoel Theatre, Valetta, Malta

6 – 8 May                 3rd International Meeting of Dance Universities, Madrid, Spain

21 – 25 May              Orvieto, Italy

30 May                     Robin Howard Dance Theatre, The Place, London

Ancient Dedication or Contemporary Education?

Date: Friday 1st May 2009
Location: Castle Lecture Theatre, South Bank University
Time: 6.30pm Doors – 7pm start 10pm finish
Adm: Free Entry – Love Donations accepted.

Institute of Regenerative Truth in association with Nu-Beyond & Black StarLine present a seminar entitled Ancient Dedication or Contemporary Education?

For further details contact: irtevents@yahoo.co.uk

Ayekoo: Ghana First (London Launch)

When: Saturday May 2 2009, 3-6pm
Where: Mission Dine Club Centre Fry Road (by Longstone Avenue/Drayton Road intersection) Harlesden London NW10 4BZ
Adm: Free (a meal costs £5) - Booking is NOT essential, although it's useful to know in advance who is attending.

To join concerned Ghanaian citizens, friends of Ghana, elders, community activists a) click on the Your Feedback button below, b) select Book Me from dropdown menu, c) enter your name and email address d) and enter in the Your Comments box your phone number and If you require more than one place, place add name, email, phone number for each person. You may add any comments or query in this box. Please note that the launch may be photographed and/or audio-video taped.

The launch in London will present feedback from Accra as a starting point

About The Project: Ghana First
A non-partisan forum that calls on Ghanaians, friends of Ghana and pan-Africanists to help build a better Ghana

Click for more information about Ayekoo session.

Elliott Rivera: Channelling With The Ancestors

When: Saturday 2nd May 2009
Time: 7pm
Where: Private Venue
Adm: The cost of the event will be £35 ( A non refundable deposit of £20 will be required and the balance to be paid on the date)

Info: If you would like to book for this event please contact: Ancient Future at info@ancientfuture.org.uk   
 

Greetings to all my Brothers and Sisters:

I would like to invite you to an evening of “CHANNELLING WITH THE ANCESTORS” led by Elliott Rivera

During this program I will call upon one of my Ancestors/Guides to speak through me in order to provide you with helpful information and if needed healing and or a private word with you.

I can tell you that this will be a great session something to remember for a while and maybe even something we can offer again in the future.

Blessings,

Brother Elliott - theansestors@hotmail.com

This event is limited to no more than 15 people because of the intensity of the session.

Elliott Rivera

Elliott Rivera is a Santero and Spiritualist. For more then 30 years he has been working as a Spiritualist/Medium. Elliott was initiated as a Santero over 17 years ago in New York City. He is a priest of Yemaya and was initiated in Palo Mayombe over 23 years ago. Elliott lives in Amsterdam, where he gives workshops on Santeria, Eggun (Ancestors) and Energy Work.

FAQ:

What is Channelling?

Channelling is the ability to allow a spirit, guide, Orisha or ancestor to enter the person’s body in order to give advice or healing to a person.

Will others share with my private talk?

NO! Spirit will always speak in a low voice or guide you away from ear shot.

If you have any other questions please feel free to ask and I will address them as soon as possible. My email address is: theansestors@hotmail.com

African (Black) and World History Courses

Date: Sunday 3 May 09, 11.00am and Thursday 7 May 09, 7.00-9.00pm
Location: Walthamstow, London E17
 
Our courses are an excellent introduction and progression into self-development providing a realistic insight into our history, present day situation and future. Our courses are popular and have been running for over 12 yrs.

Our unique series of 17/18 week courses are divided into 3 sections to cater for everyone. Classes are held on:
Sundays (Beginners-11.00am-1.00pm, Intermediate -1.30-3.30pm, and Advance 5.30-7.30pm) and on Thursdays (beginners only -7.00-9.00pm).

Beginners- an introduction for participants in World History from a Black perspective: Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas , the Ancient Egyptians, Nubians, Greeks and Romans. We will explore the global Black experience and relate this to the here and now. The civilisations of Europe, the Dark Ages, politics of economics, the politics of race and nationalism, culture and identity, religion and spirituality. Participants will learn about themselves, as they explore through seminars, discussions, themes and issues and then relate this to themselves and the present.
Minimum donation: £75.00 Concessions @ £65.00/unemployed/students Intermediate- for those who wish to take their understanding and
knowledge of black history and its interconnectedness to the world a stage further.
Minimum donation: £75.00 Concessions @ £65.00/unemployed/students

Advanced-for those who are already extremely knowledgeable about themselves and see clear links between their own lives and history. Participants have already challenged conventional views of history and understand the different perspectives and concepts.
Minimum donation: £77.50 Concessions @ £67.50/unemployed/students

Advance bookings only.  Book early to avoid disappointment! We will be hosting enrolment & induction sessions for our Black and World History. You will have to attend an induction session before commencing the course.  Enrolment will involve completing an application form and payment of course fee.

The induction will provide you with details about the course, the code of conduct and the commitment required of yourself to successfully complete the course.

To reserve a place on a course please contact Afua on 020 8808 7547/07956 337 391 o via email: thinktank_27@yahoo.com.
www.onyeka.co.uk

Ancient Future & Muatta Books Present - The Ancestral Experience

Location: Happy People’s Restaurant, 160 Page Green Terrace, High Road Tottenham N15 4NU
Date: Sunday 3rd May 2009
Time: Doors Open: 3pm
Adm: £7 (£5 Concessions)

A day of readings, lectures & workshops celebrating our Ancestors, the Nkisi’s and Orisha’s…

·        Guest Speakers
·        Workshops
·        Psychic Readers
·        Astrology
·        Healing
·        Tarot
·        Numerology
·        Arts & Crafts
·        Books, DVDs & Spiritual Supplies

Featuring:

·       Sis Osunwummi – Yoruba Priestess
·       Elliott Rivera – Santeria and Palo Priest
·       Sis Omalani – Oshun Priestess
·       Bro Israel – Ogun Initiate & Occultist
·       Joe Blackmann – Esoteric Teacher
·       Plus More… Full details coming soon.

Contact:  info@ancientfuture.org.uk

07983442876 or 07956134370

VENDORS WELCOME (Please call for bookings)

Black History Walks 

Where: Next Walk in the St Pauls/Bank area
When: Bank Holiday Monday 4th May 2pm / Sunday 17th  May 11.15am and  2pm 

In 100 minutes your guide will take you through hundreds of years of the African presence, and contribution, to London’s way of life. Discover secret alleyways and enormous buildings all connected to Africa and the Caribbean in ways which the owners do not want you to know. Find out about black loyalists and African revolutionaries. Uncover the submerged links between racism, trade, religion, slavery and politics which are still evident in the very streets and buildings of the oldest part of London.

www.blackhistorywalks.co.uk

Where: Next Walk in Trafalgar Square
When: Bank Holiday Monday 4th  May 11am 

Millions of people walk through WC2 (Trafalgar/Leicester Square area) every day and have no idea of the centuries of African history under their feet. In 2 hours your guide will uncover the black presence and influence in the area. African Princes, Generals, Resistance Fighters, Civil Rights Leaders, Pilots, Nurses and Sailors all make an appearance. We will also highlight the links between Africa, China, India and the Caribbean and explain how history was whitewashed and racism institutionalised.

www.blackhistorywalks.co.uk

Education and Community Seminar:
Ipaja Community Link and Community Development Field Trips to Nigeria

Date: Wednesday 6 May 2009
Time: 4pm - 5.30pm
Venue: Stratford Campus of the University of East London, E15 4LZ

Yomi Oloko, of Development Impact for Nigeria (a UK based Nigerian Diaspora organisation that aims to mobilise Nigerians in the Diaspora to support development in Nigeria - http://www.difn.org.uk/) will discuss making field trips to Nigeria to support DIFN's work with Ipaja Community Link in Lagos - http://ipajacommunitylink.blogspot.com/

Please contact Costas Liantis if you would like to attend - c.liantis@uel.ac.uk

bfm Film Club: African Shorts Programme

Date: Sunday 10th May 2009
Time: 4.15 pm
Location: Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA), The Mall (just off Trafalgar Square).
Adm: £8 non-members / £7 concession / £6 members

Book: 0207 930 3647 or online at www.ica.org.uk / By Tube: Charing Cross or Piccadilly Circus / By Bus: 3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 22, 23, 24, 29, 38, 77a, 88, 91, 139, 176

Dir: Various / Dur: 17min/2008/UK; 25min/2007/UK/Nigeria; 65min/2007/US

Language: English / Subtitles

Cert: 12A

An eclectic mix of short films from the 10th BFM International Film Festival.

The award winning Survivor (Dir: Nicole Volavka), a tale of friendship made on fragile emotional grounds in the world of London’s night cleaners. Fast paced Area Boys (Dir: Omelihu Nwanguma), lifelong friends Bode and Obi decide to sever the ties to their life of crime for good, but their plans fall apart before it’s began. Sensual Movement (R)evolution Africa  (Dir: Joan Frosch and Alla Korgan), riveting stories of nine African choreographers who unveil soul shaking responses to the beauty and tragedy of the 21st century through dance.

 Screening will be followed by a discussion with Directors (tbc).

BFM: www.bfmmedia.com or contact Film Club Co-ordinator Nadia Denton at nadia@bfmmedia

Ìyà-Ilé (The First Wife)

Date: May 14-June 20 2009
Location: Soho Theatre, Dean Street, London W1
Adm: £10
Contact: 020 7478 0100

New play by Tiata Fahodzi, It's 1989 in Lagos. Political hysteria and social change are sweeping Nigeria. Chief Adeyemi's wife Toyin is turning 40 and, behind the mansion walls, the household is preparing for her party. But there are other distractions. Their troublesome sons, returning from college, are more interested in seduction and starting revolutions than their parents' disintegrating marriage. Meanwhile Helen, the ambitious house girl, is waiting for her chance...

An unmissable theatrical party, Ìyà-Ilé is the long- awaited prequel to the hugely successful The Estate, which is currently being adapted for film. A vibrant mix of comedy, political satire and family intrigue, Ìyà-Ilé is packed with witty dialogue and the wonderful music of Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Sunny Ade and Ebenezer Obey.

Written by Oladipo Agboluaje / Directed by Femi Elufowoju, jr

www.sohotheatre.com
http://www.tiatafahodzi.com/

NCBI: Pro-diversity & inclusion leadership training  

When: 3-day training dates: 14/15/16 May 2009
Where: London
Training costs: Charities £175 | Public Sector £300 | Business £450

Are you responsible for the management, productivity and mentoring of people?
This course teaches you how to reduce risks and maximise opportunities inherent in any multi-cultural organisation.

Would you like to increase your and your staff’s understanding around diversity and inclusive behaviour?
This course teaches how to embrace and support each individual’s identity to create an inclusive performance-orientated team.

Would you like to improve your effectiveness in reducing prejudicial behaviour and bring about sustainable outcomes?
This course offers teaching and practice of vital skills you require to effectively intervene and shift people’s attitudes for the long-term.

Has conflict at work lost you valuable time and caused tension?
NCBI conflict resolution model empowers you to work through differences by focusing on common concerns to achieve considered, positive outcomes.
Would you like a diversity & inclusion model to take back and cascade in your organisation?
NCBI 3-day training provides an in-depth, practical approach to skills-building which many organisations, schools and colleges have effectively implemented.

about this course

Managers and staff with diversity & inclusion and equal opportunities responsibilities benefit tremendously from the NCBI 3-day training by being able to cascade skills learned instead of trying to implement theory.

The training uses participatory activities, which include:
1. The celebration of the participants’ identities.
2. The examination of stereotyping, misinformation and internalised oppression.
3. Small learning sets where participants receive individual coaching and practice skills.
4. The combination of diversity intelligence and practical skill training, enabling participants to learn quickly in a safe environment.

 Places are limited so early booking is advised.

Please download and complete the booking form to reserve a place.

http://www.ncbi.org.uk/documents/london/booking%20form.doc

NCBI has been delivering these workshops for over 20 years and has won several awards including Best Practice Awards and the Nelson Mandela award for our effective training models. NCBI also encourages training participants to think about delivering in-house trainings and developing your own NCBI team with on-going support.

NCBI London also facilitates the award-winning “Welcoming Diversity” one-day course throughout the year.  See our website www.ncbi.org.uk

For more information or to contact us regarding bespoke assessment and programming for your organisation ncbilondon@ncbi.org.uk   Phone: 08707 461553

London Business School Africa Day

Location: London, United Kingdom
Date: 16 May 2009

London Business School’s Africa Club is delighted to invite you to Africa Day 2009.

The conference will take place on Saturday, 16 May 2009 at London Business School from 9AM to 5PM, with a gala dinner to follow.

The eighth annual Africa Day conference will focus on the "Investment Climate in Africa: Navigating the Global Downturn". This year, our four panels will discuss:

1) Innovative Financing in Africa
2) Natural Resources: Curse or Blessing?
3) China's Growing Influence in Africa
4) Growth Sectors Beating the DownturnKeynote speakers will include Hakeem Belo-Osagie (Chairman, Metis Capital Partners), Ebenezer N. Essoka (CEO, Standard Chartered Bank, South Africa), Ahmed Heikal (Co-Founder, Citadel Capital), and Omari Issa (CEO, Investment Climate Facility for Africa).

For updates, please visit http://www.londonafricaclub.org/africaday

Rastafari Education Conference

Where:          University of Birmingham
When:            Monday 18th May 09
Time:             10.30 – 4.30

Delegate Rate: Professional Rate:  £ 150 (including complementary copy of  “Overstanding Rastafari: Jamaica’s Gift to the World”* and an information and display pack “Introduction to Rastafari”)

Community Rate: Contact the Conference Team on 01902 429185 or email info@learninglinksinternational.com

“…merely to say that “Overstanding Rastafari” is an authentic source does not do justice to what is indeed a rich compendium of the principles that guide the development and spread of Rastafari.  Of even more striking significance is the interpretive brilliance of the remarkable philosopher that is Afari…  All Jamaicans should consider themselves indebted to the author for increasing our knowledge of self… we have created yet another gift to the world.”

Professor Barry Chevannes, C.D.

(Professor Emeritus of Social Anthropology, University of the West Indies)

Organisers: Jamaica 2K, Learning Links International, University of Birmingham, Rastafari in the West Midlands,
Contact:        Conference Team, Learning Links International: info@learninglinksinternational.com

Visit www.rastafariwestmidlands.co.uk for information on the Rastafari Heritage Project 

Book Launch: George Padmore: Pan-African Revolutionary, edited by Fitzroy Baptiste and Rupert Lewis

When: Tuesday 19 May
Time: 17:00 - 19:00
Where: Institute of Commonwealth Studies, 28 Russell Square, London WC1B 5DS

This will be a round-table discussion with two of the contributors,  

Hakim Adi, Reader, Middlesex University

and

Marika Sherwood, Senior Research Fellow, Institute of Commonwealth Studies

and two exciting PhD students,

Christian Hogsbjerg, working on 'CLR James in Imperial Britain, 1932-1938' at the University of York

and

Leslie James, researching 'A Biography on George Padmore', at the International History Department, LSE

SERTUC Film Club will screen THE STRUGGLE CONTINUES… (2 Episodes)  

When: Thursday 21 May 2009
Time: 7-10pm
Adm: Free

2 Films (from 4 part series) by Colin Prescod made for Channel 4 at the beginning of the 1980s:

·         FROM YOU WERE BLACK, YOU WERE OUT describes the condition in the 1950s in Ladbroke Grove a decaying inner London area.

·         A TOWN UNDER SIEGE focuses on how Southall organised to resist racist and fascist attacks between 1976 and 1981.

·         + Discussion with Filmmaker; Colin Prescod

We take this opportunity to invite you to attend, and request (please) your help with circulation to colleagues, friends and any other interested links. Free admission event (all welcome).

Registration essential:  sertucevents@tuc.org.uk / 020 7467 1220

African Liberation Day (ALD): Honour Nkrumah

When: Saturday 23rd May 2009
Where: Chestnuts Community Centre, St Ann's Road, Tottenham, N15 (nearest tube: Seven Sisters - Victoria Line)
Time: 5pm - 10pm
Adm: £5 donation requested (children free)

When: Saturday 30th May 2009
African Liberation Day in solidarity with PASCF; APLO; AAPRP; AJAMU and others in South London (venue to be confirmed - Call: 07940.005.907)

Global Economic Crisis calls for Pan-African Unity: Build one united socialist Africa

Speakers:
Kwame Nkrumah CPP (Ghana)
PANAFU (Sierra Leone)
All African Peoples Revolutionary Party (AAPRP)
African Peoples Liberation Organisation / Pan-Africa Society Community Forum (APLO / PASCF)
Global Women's Strike

Invited speakers:
Cuban Ambassador
Venezuelan Ambassador
  
Cultural stalls; cultural artists; raffle; light refreshments & snacks
Sorry - no childcare programme!

We are going to have great evening commemoration of the 51st observerance of ALD. We have a great line-up of speakers. We will identify the causes of the economic crisis, the collapse of 'old style' capitalism and its impact. We will debate the impact in England and what we can do about it.

We will also demonstrate the alternative examples in socialist countries, with a particular focus on what Africans can learn from the various struggles around the world.

You will have the opportunity to express your views and debate with the panel.

Contact: AJAMU on 07852.937.981 or panafrica@which.net

100 Years of Kwame Nkrumah (born 1909)
2009 - A year dedicated to promoting his ideas & practice
(Look out for the info, events and activities this year
organised by the AAPRP & AJAMU)

Walter Tull and Other African Footballers 1890-1990

Date: 23rd May 2009
Time: 1.00pm - 4.30pm

Explore the life of Walter Tull, footballer and the first African officer in the British army who served during the First World War.  Take the chance to see a new film made about this exceptional officer who died on the battlefield. We will also look at the achievements of other African footballers throughout the twentieth century.

In association with www.blackhistorywalks and 100 Black Men of London  www.100bmol.org.uk

Black History Walking Tour

Date: 7th June 2009
Time: 11.00am

Beginning at Imperial War Museum London’s From War to Windrush exhibition, join Tony Warner as he guides you on a tour of the African history of Lambeth and Southwark. This 90 minute walk links Imperial War Museum London to the Cuming Museum in nearby Elephant and Castle.

In association with www.blackhistorywalks and 100 Black Men of London  www.100bmol.org.uk

ANANSEKROM 2009: A Ghanaian Cultural Extravaganza

Date: Saturday 25th July 2009
Time: 11am – 8pm
Location: The Orsett Showground, Grays, Essex

Noble friends present Anansekrom 2009 - A Ghanaian cultural extravaganza. Activities will include:
Durbar of Chiefs, Drum Master Class, Story Telling, Traditional Ghanaian Games, Traditional Drumming and Dancing, Hip Life African Artifacts, Traditional Dishes, Puppet Show, Table Tennis Tournament, 5-A-Side Football, Cross section of Black Stars Football Team in attendance

Live in Concert:
OFORI AMPONSAH
Performing all his hits

For more Information, Ticket Bookings & Stalls, please contact:
07951 644 296, 07845 500 038, 07759 459 771, 07985 148 436, 07534 148 464, 07810 740 227
Email: info@noblefriends.ord

400 Years of African Female Leaders

Date: 27th September 2009
Time: 1.00pm - 4.30pm

Women in war or peacetime do not always get the historical credit they deserve. Through film and documentaries find out about African women who have led the resistance against slavery, colonialism, and racism.

In association with www.blackhistorywalks and 100 Black Men of London  www.100bmol.org.uk