A series of half-term activities and events celebrating the borough's diverse population will be kicking off next week, thanks to our community grant funding.
The Diversity Festival, organised by Elstree and Borehamwood Unity Network, is a family-friendly event showcasing a wide range of activities, including local artisans, live music, a Peruvian dance presentation, an interactive drumming workshop and laughter therapy session. Discussions will also be taking place on mental health and support on the ground and on Sunday there will be a community 'pot luck' lunch with free entry being offered to anyone bringing a dish. It will take place at Fairway Hall, Brook Close, from 10am until 10pm on Saturday 29 October and 10am until 6pm on Sunday 30 October.
In addition, charity Learning Through The Arts will be holding a series of free children and family workshops from Monday 24 October to Friday 28 October from 10am to 1pm each day. The Spirit of Africa workshops, which will run at Borehamwood Library in 96 Shenley Road on Monday 24 October and at Allum House, Allum Lane, Tuesday 25 to Friday 28 October, include African drumming, African stories and drama, clay pot, tie dye t-shirt and zulu shield sessions.
A £2000 community grant and £500 from our Ward Improvement Initiative Scheme has been used to help fund the Diversity Festival. The Spirit of Africa workshops are also being funded by a £2000 community grant.
The activities are being held during Black History Month and are in line with our new corporate vision. As part of that vision, it has committed to championing social justice and supporting inclusive communities.
Portfolio Holder for Community, Leisure, Culture and Health, Cllr Meenal Sachdev, said: "As a council, we want to support events which promote and celebrate Hertsmere's diverse population. Ensuring the borough continues to be an inclusive and equitable place to live and work is a key focus of our vision moving forward.
"Our Black History Month flag-raising ceremony earlier this month really helped bring organisations together. These events will help us to reach out further to people on the ground and provide hands-on meaningful experiences, so we can all begin to recognise and appreciate the often overlooked contributions of our black communities.
"I hope as many people as possible come along and have fun. There is literally something for everyone of all backgrounds and ages to enjoy and participate in."
Our Community Grants scheme was specifically aimed this year at supporting initiatives which celebrated the diverse communities and promoted inclusion.
To find out more about the diversity festival go to www.diversityfestival.uk, interculturalbe@gmail.com or 07852 967160.
To find out about The Spirit of Africa workshops go to learningthroughthearts.eventbrite.com. All children under 10 years must come with an adult. Booking is essential.
Posted on Friday 21st October 2022