Knowing Me Knowing You

Over the course of November, four separate events were held at the Pop-In Parlour as part of Thamesmead’s Heritage and Culture Month which explored and celebrated the diverse cultures and communities here in Thamesmead, with a finale held at The Link Thamesmead, which was a culmination of all four separate events brought together in a bigger venue for one final celebration.

Throughout the evening (30 November), local residents and performing artists were able to meet each other and talk about their cultures as well as showcase some amazing talents.

A total of 11 acts danced, sang, spoke and presented on a range of topics and cultural influences. This involved cookery demonstrations by members of the Turkish community and healthy eating demonstrations by a Public Health & Wellbeing Officer from the Royal Borough of Greenwich, as well as workshops creating traditional carnival headwear. A local talent showcase was also held as were discussions about what people’s cultures not only meant to them but to others too.

Other highlights included dance performances by local dance groups; Dynamix and Azonto Dance, as well as belly dancing, Turkish Folk dancing and guest speakers including His Royal Highness Osunsami, an African King, all of whom spoke about their life experiences of moving, visiting and growing-up the UK. 

Trust Thamesmead’s Community Development Officer, Alex Forrester who led the event said: “Individually, each performance, speech and workshop were really exciting but to have all local acts and residents taking part and celebrating the event together created a real community spirit which not only celebrated the diversity in Thamesmead, but also brought people together to discuss, ask questions and learn more about others in their community.”