On my stall at Africa on the Square, for the first time, someone who I created the book for, got back to me! And it took me completely by surprise... 

A mother approached my stall with her daughter and she was pulling at her Mum's coat with such excitement she could hardly contain herself, saying "Mummy! Mummy, I've got that one! Mummy" pointing at my 'African Musical Instruments: Colouring Book' book and I thought oh how nice, that's good; she remembers it! Then she takes down this massive pink bag with little brown girls on it off her shoulder saying "Look, look!".. I was feeling excited.. Had she really made the effort to bring her book with her today of all days? 
She takes my book out of her bag and her Mum tells me she takes her book everywhere, that she even colours it in on the train, any opportunity she can get! I'm feeling over the moon now! I ask her if I can see it - she has coloured in all the pictures in pink, green and blue with so much care and attention..

Apart form giving her something to enjoy as a child,  I hope that I have given her just one more ounce of confidence in herself as a little girl of African descent. Thank you to her Mummy for buying the book for your girl, that single moment really made these two years worthwhile.

What a privilege to be at the opening of the opening of the Black Cultural Archives on Thursday 24th July 2014! There were performances and talks from the likes of Akala, dub-poet Linton Kwesi Johnson, the amazing author and founder of OWAAD Stella Dadzie, channel 4 journalist Simeon Browne and one of my favourite historians Dr. Hakim Adi. I also spotted Sol Campbell and Benjamin Zephaniah photobombed one of my pictures! It was a beautiful evening and the community came out in droves.

Though I was not able to get in to visit the Black Women in Britain exhibition due to queues so long (people having travelled down from as far as Scotland and Australia!), I was also fortunate enough to be invited to donate my African Musical Instruments book which was the least I could do in return for an impromptu birthday present!

The Black Cultural Archive was founded in 1981 with the aim to collect, preserve and celebrate the heritage and history of Black people in Britain. The BCA is the UK’s first dedicated Black heritage centre in Brixton, London in July 2014 with the new location allowing greater access to the archive collection, dedicated learning spaces and an exciting programme of exhibitions and events that explore British history from a unique perspective.

I did meet many of my peers of the 25-30 age bracket and it was great to see some children here too; getting the history to the young ones is of course a great concern I address in my own work, but we also take the time to remember those who passed in the 30 year wait before their dream came to fruition. Len Garrison founder of the BCA died of a heart attack in 2003 aged 59. He was arguably the most important figure in the black British community's exploration and understanding of its history. A historian, poet and educationist, his work in creating and developing materials based on the experience of African and Caribbean pupils gave a major impetus to the development of a multicultural curriculum in British schools.

So come down and celebrate his and our legacy with a coffee (it's free entry after all!) between Tuesday and Sunday!


Free entry
Tue - Sun 10:00 - 18:00
1 Othello Close, London SE11 4RE
020 7582 8516

Sources: 
The Guardian Newspaper: Len Garrison: Recording the history of black Britons for future generations
Black Cultural Archives website: www.bcaheritage.org.uk

The Africa Live Festival @ The Elephant & The Nun
Saturday 16th August 2014, 12pm - 7pm 
Burgess Park, Southwark, London, SE5

The Africa Live festival 2014 has been invited to bring the very best of African Culture in its entirety to the Elephant & The Nun. It will be the only place throughout the entire event where the public will be able to buy African influenced bespoke goods, enjoy arts and crafts, fashion, holistic therapies, live music and sample the true diversity of cuisine representative of the Caribbean, Latin America and Africa itself.

What is the Elephant & The Nun?
The Elephant & The Nun is set to be London’s quirkiest Festival, a real celebration art, music and culture. The Elephant & The Nun began in 2011 and was characterised by a series of eclectic events that took place through the borough of Southwark from Elephant & Castle all the way to Nunhead (hence the name )

This year, rather than having lots of events across Southwark, it was decided to combine all of these events into one spectacular festival in the stunning redeveloped Burgess park.

"...one of the best free events celebrating African culture in London. Over the years we have held several events and have been supported by many organisations including but not limited to, Grace foods, Jamaica National, OHTV, The Voice Newspaper, BBC London, LycaMobile, and Afriqyah airways."

This means that the day will be packed with activities, there will be performances from the National Theatre, comedy cabaret from Pull the other one, a funfair from George Irvin, super 7 sports from the sports clubs based in the park , opportunities to  try something healthy with The Creation Trust & incredible edible, pop up performances and a wonderful main stage of world music from Local Global.

 The Africa Live Festival will be situated in the very heart of the event surrounded by the world music stage, national theatre, pop up performance spaces and the Pull the other one cabaret tent.

Travel directions:
There is limited parking available so we recommend using public transport

Buses:
•53, 63, 78,168, 172, 363, 453 Old Kent Road entrance *(recommended entrance)
•12, 35, 40, 45, 68, 468 Camberwell Road entrance
•42, 343 Albany Road entrance
Tube: Elephant and Castle (Northern or Bakerloo line)
Rail: Elephant and Castle
Car park: Albany Road
Bike park: Chumleigh Gardens off Albany Road


Source: http://theafricanmarketday.com/#the-africa-live-festival

The African Market at Spitalfields
Saturday 26th July 2014, 11 - 5pm 
16 Horner Square, Spitalfields, London E1 6EW

Open The Gate is proudly hosting their unique alternative fair, The African Market, featuring a selection of the most talented designers from Africa and inspired by African cultures.

The African Market showcases original & ethical fashion, accessories, jewellery, shoes as well as arts & crafts, homeware, natural beauty products, books, music, arts and more. Local & international charities are also represented, promoting their actions and raising awareness but also funds by selling goods.

And in addition face-painting, glitter tattoos and other kids activities all afternoon!

Also visit: http://www.oldspitalfieldsmarket.com/the-market/saturday-market/the-african-market

Source: http://openthegate.org.uk/

UZIMA -  Natural Holistic Expo
Saturday 19th July 2014, 12 - 10pm
Conway Hall, Red Lion Square, WC1R

An annual event that promoting Health & Lifestyle, Hair & Beauty, Fashion & Culture.
African Market - An abundance of exhibitors providing goods and services in health & wellbeing, natural hair & skin care, arts & crafts, jewellery & adornment, books & education, fashion wear.​
Presentations and Workshops - Presented by professionals and leading experts in Health Awareness, Hair and Skin Care, Raw Food and Nutrition, Holistic Lifestyle and Natural Remedies.​​
Cultural Showcase - Live stage performances by artists showcasing their talent in Storytelling, Traditional Music, Spoken Word, Comedy, Hair & Fashion Design, African Drum & Dance, Drama, Youth Empowerment.​ Hosted by Usifu Jalloh.
Complimentary Therapy - Indulge, relax and treat yourself with a massage, reflexology, body and skin treatments.
Source: http://www.uzimaexpo.co.uk/

Want to support? Send a message to info (at) ami-book.com or buy the book!

I attended my first SOAS Bazaar a few days ago and it was fantastic! Thanks to everyone who came out in support and to the wonderful Student Enterprise team who have made me aware of the help they offer to new businesses! Will definitely making more appearances next year!

The SOAS Bazaar takes place roughly once a month and it is an opportunity for students and staff to sell, exhibit, and promote their home-made products, home-baked goods, or test out their business ideas. It is also a great place to raise money for charities or societies as well as meet new people. 

Africa at Spitalfields
Bank Holiday Monday 26th May 2014, 10am-4pm

"Enjoy 120 Stalls representing 54 countries in 1 African inspired market at Spitalfields on Bank Holiday Monday 26th May. 

Africa at Spitalfields returns to Spitalfields for a second successful year bringing together the best of African inspired produce from all corners of the continent in an interactive, one day market event inspired by the beautiful, vibrant and alluring continent of Africa.

Africa at Spitalfields will have stalls selling a myriad of items such as one-off clothing, handmade crafts, interiors, carvings, books and delicious rustic African street food to whet the appetite of all visitors.

More than just a conventional market day, Africa at Spitalfields is a unique interactive shopping experience; bringing together the communities in London to celebrate Africa. Catering to all, visitors will be entertained by traditional hot-stepping African dancers, the beats of Djembe drummers, live acoustic music, crafts and traditional story-telling. There will be interactive African inspired games and face painting for the kids –and the ‘big kids’ in us too.

Feed your curiosity, your eyes and your taste buds… Get Inspired; Get Involved.

Free entry for all and everyone is welcome!"
Source: http://www.spitalfields.co.uk/dspevent.php?name=AFRICA+AT+SPITALFIELDS#.U2NweK1dV_h

The African Market at Spitalfields
Join us on Bank Holiday Monday 5th May for a full day of African Fashion, Arts & Crafts, Live Music, Edu-tainment, networking and food!


The African Market Stalls 
The African Market showcases original & ethical fashion, accessories, jewellery, shoes as well as Arts & Crafts, homeware, natural beauty products, books, music, arts and more. Local & international charities are also represented, promoting their actions and raising awareness but also funds by selling goods.


Live on stage

• Drumming circle by OneDrum London
  
•  Fashion show  directed by Christelle KediStylist
  
•  Headwrapping demo by Sista E. The Calabash Hub
  
•  Storytelling  by the Cowfoot Prince Usifu Jalloh
  
•  Anna MudekaBand  Live Music - Zimbabwean Mbira Afrorock Afrofunk
  
•  DJ Koichi Sakai (Ghetto Lounge)
  
•  Hosted by Usifu Jalloh & Zena Edwards
  

Workshops 

•  Mosaic making with Dionne Ible (Qemamu Mosaics )
  
•  Facepainting and glitter tattoos by KEMI
  
• Massage therapy by Mariama Ndiaye
  

And to complete the atmosphere, delicious African and Caribbean food!

The 4th Annual Afridiziak Gifts and Occasions Winter Fair
Saturday 7th, 11 - 7pm
Embassy Tea Gallery, 195-205 Union Street, London SE1 0LN
Entry: £3 includes £1 charitable donation to the Sickle Cell Society payable on the door, under 16s are free

Afridiziak Gifts and Occasions are back with their annual culturally inspired winter fair. We are pleased to be holding our fourth London Winter Fair on Saturday 7 December at the Embassy Tea Gallery and in Birmingham on Saturday 14 December at the Lighthouse Young People’s Centre.

Since 2010, Afridiziak Gifts and Occasions shopping events have attracted quality exhibitors showcasing the finest selection of merchandise. Many of the items on sale have been naturally/organically produced and handmade.

This unique shopping event brings together entrepreneurs selling culturally inspired gifts, which give shoppers the opportunity to pick up inspiring gifts, which ooze creativity.

Charity: For the second year running we have chosen the Sickle Cell Society as our official charity and we will donate a percentage of proceeds taken on the door from both events.

Kalpna Patel, Sickle Cell Society: “The Sickle Cell Society is delighted to receive support from Afridiziak Gifts and Occasions through their winter fair. This fantastic event will help raise awareness about sickle cell disease amongst the local community”.

The annual Afridiziak Gifts and Occasions winter fairs are a chance to treat yourself and pick up something special for your loved ones too. The family day includes:

• Retailers selling culturally inspired gifts for men, women, and children including hair/beauty products, books, toys, educational gifts, paintings, jewellery, accessories, bags, clothing, gifts for the home, cultural cuisine and greeting cards too…
• Goodie bag and cupcake for the first 50 shoppers
• DJ’s Blaze It Up Entertainment spinning an eclectic mix of tunes
• [Birmingham] For children - mini arts and crafts workshops by Anaisarts
• [Birmingham] a fashion show hosted by Elev8te
• Raffle prizes galore – we are raising funds for the Sickle Cell Society
• Images captured by Mellz Photography [London] | Lensi Photography [Birmingham]
• Pop up café at both venues

The African Christmas Market
Sunday 15th, 12 - 7pm
Gillet Square, Dalston, N16 8AZ

The perfect place for the most original and handcrafted Christmas gifts in the heart of Hackney!

Open The Gate is proudly hosting their unique alternative fair, The African Market, in the heart of Dalston – for a Christmas special, featuring a selection of the most talented designers from Africa and inspired by African cultures.

MANY STALLS:
Original & ethical fashion, accessories, jewellery, shoes as well as Arts & Crafts, homeware, natural beauty products, books, music, arts and more.
Local & international charities are also represented, promoting their actions and raising awareness but also funds by selling goods.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES :
Facepainting, Glitter Tattoos, Drumming Circle with ONE- DRUM collective and other FREE kids activities all afternoon!

A peak at some of the instruments to make an appearance at the next stalls! 

• Balafon
• Shekeres (medium and large)
• Kalimbas (large and small)
• Bean Rattles

The African Market at Old Spitalfields Market, 11-5 pm. Saturday 23rd November.

Pen and Paper fundraiser at RichMix, 7:30- 11:30pm. 35-47 Bethnal Green Rd, E1 6LA.

African cultural education and activities often focus on drumming, and though an extremely important part of African culture: did you know Africa has a wide variety of harps, lutes, xylophones and zithers which have a variety of uses?

The African Musical Instruments book contains twenty-one instruments from mainly sub-Saharan Africa with an illustration and information on each. These introduce ideas of cultural values and customs, spirituality and beliefs, creativity, artisan skill and the technologies that go into producing the instrument, rather than learning about any of these in isolation.  This coupled with the instruments themselves provide endless fun and child participation whilst at the same time learning about new interesting cultures through a creative medium. 

Not only this, but the book contains an introduction into the role of music in African culture; types and regions of African music; instrument classification; a glossary; and the spread of African music beyond the continent and into the diaspora, who held onto their culture in the Americas laying the foundations for new types of music and indeed Western pop music.

The only book of its kind, and aimed at children is bright and beautifully designed; there is also a colouring book version for children to get creative! 

It’s an important tool which will help to instil cultural knowledge, pride, and a positive self image and identity. It also puts into context what we mainly learn about black history at school by showing the very culture people were fighting to hold on to; we see how this was the foundation for resistance in the various global civil rights movements and chattel slavery. But it’s not about fighting! – it’s about celebrating the long African history and culture looking at the great kingdoms of Songhai, Great Zimbabwe, the Empire of Mali and Ancient Egypt.

Make this black history month as fun, positive and informative as can be!


ISBN: African Musical Instruments Book - 9781627761420
African Musical Instruments Book: Colouring Book - 9781627762502
African Patterns Colouring Book - 9781627768214

Available via the website, Nielsen, Amazon and Waterstones.
www.AMI-Book.com

Discounts for school bulk orders and a selection of *instruments available.
*Fairly traded, and ethically produced by African artisans and craftspeople.

Interested in workshops?