A charity founded to inspire and showcase the achievements of black people in the North East is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a calendar of special events from an African Caribbean carnival to a beauty pageant.
Taste of Africa North East was founded by Folasade Sangowawa, whose own experience as a British-Nigerian woman living in Teesside led to her wanting to shout out loud about the achievements of African Caribbean people in the region and challenge discrimination through positivity.
“I set up Taste of Africa North East to break down stereotypes of black people,” said Sade.
“I wanted to change people’s views and groups of people’s views so black people can walk around with pride. It was about showcasing the positive side of Africa and its people.
“There is still work to be done but there has been a massive improvement in people’s perceptions. The organisation has paved the way for a more positive, inclusive future.”
To kick off Black History Month this October, the charity held a spectacular carnival and market in Middlesbrough town centre on Saturday 30th September which attracted thousands of people. African Zulu dance group, Queens of Umzansi, wowed the crowd with their energetic performance while up-and-coming Teesside artists were given the opportunity to debut their music to a new audience.
On the evening, the final of Miss Black History North East was held in Leonardo Hotel in Middlesbrough. The winner, chosen by a judging panel looking for ‘more than the face’, will become an ambassador for Taste of Africa North East during her reign.
In October, the Black History Youth Awards will be held on Friday 13th at Middlesbrough Town Hall to celebrate the achievements of young people. Now in its 10th year, the awards aim to promote positive role models for black youths and celebrate achievements in the community.
On Saturday 21st October, the Taste of Africa Showcase will return in spectacular style to Middlesbrough Town Hall. It is the charity’s biggest event – and the longest-running African event in the North East – and attracts an audience from a range of backgrounds.
Taste of Africa North East also runs a youth mentoring and leadership programme, and provides workshops in schools and organisations to promote diversity and inclusion through African arts and culture.
Find out more about the charity at www.tasteofafricanortheast.co.uk