This October, Wandsworth Libraries proudly celebrates Black History Month under the powerful theme of Leadership and Pride - two values that have shaped the past, defined the present, and inspired the future of communities across Britain and here in Wandsworth.
Leadership: The Power to Inspire and Transform
Leadership is not just about titles - it’s about vision, courage, and the ability to effect meaningful change. Black leaders have long stood at the forefront of movements for justice, equality, and cultural transformation. From civil rights pioneers to trailblazers in education, business, and the arts, their legacies remind us that leadership is rooted in community, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of a better tomorrow for future generations.
In Wandsworth, we honour figures like Alex Wheatle MBE, whose literary voice and mentorship empowered generations of young people. We celebrate educators, activists, and everyday heroes whose leadership continues to shape our borough and enrich our libraries.
In Wandsworth, we honour figures like Alex Wheatle MBE, whose literary voice and mentorship empowered generations of young people. We celebrate educators, activists, and everyday heroes whose leadership continues to shape our borough and enrich our libraries.
Pride: Celebrating Identity, Heritage, and Excellence
Pride is the heartbeat of Black culture. It’s found in the rhythms of music, the colours of art, the power of storytelling, and the strength of ancestral wisdom. Pride means knowing where we come from, embracing our heritage, and walking boldly into the future - without compromise or apology
Wandsworth Libraries is proud to be a space where Black history is preserved, Black voices are amplified, and excellence is celebrated. From the vibrant literature of the Caribbean diaspora the achievements of local artists and entrepreneurs, we honour the richness and diversity of Black British culture.
Join Us This October
Throughout Black History Month, our libraries will host author talks, exhibitions, workshops, and community events that reflect the themes of Leadership and Pride. We invite everyone to explore, learn, and celebrate the contributions of Black people to British life—and to Wandsworth itself.
Meet our speakers
Story Catchers exhibition: We Are Somebody
Story Catchers exhibition: We Are Somebody
An exhibition showcasing Wandsworth’s hidden heritage through the stories of local elders
Friday 19th September - November
Wandsworth Town Library
For generations, African, Caribbean and Asian diasporic communities have woven themselves into the fabric of the UK, shaping its culture, economy, and society. The stories of older people from these communities in Wandsworth are a powerful testimony to this journey. Many of them have worked in hospitals, kitchens and schools whilst laying down roots and finding a place to call home.
An exhibition showcasing Wandsworth’s hidden heritage through the stories of local elders
Friday 19th September - November
Wandsworth Town Library
For generations, African, Caribbean and Asian diasporic communities have woven themselves into the fabric of the UK, shaping its culture, economy, and society. The stories of older people from these communities in Wandsworth are a powerful testimony to this journey. Many of them have worked in hospitals, kitchens and schools whilst laying down roots and finding a place to call home.
Paul Bridges, Pilar Nalwimba, Chelhie Walters
Modern Media Platforms and Black History for the Future
Tuesday, 7th October, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
This webinar is ideal for educators, creatives, historians, and anyone passionate about cultural preservation and innovation.
Online
Paul Bridges is a multi-talented entrepreneur best known for his appearance on the hit reality series Blue Therapy. A graduate in Business Management, Paul is also a qualified personal trainer who began his career working in tech in the City. His drive and versatility later led him into the world of reality television, where he gained recognition before moving behind the camera to produce his own shows. Today, Paul leverages his diverse background to focus on marketing consultancy and mentoring, helping brands and individuals build influence and achieve sustainable growth. Host, Pilar Nalwimba is celebrated for her dynamic presence, including being crowned Best Presenter for the BBC1 Xtra podcast. She is also the brilliant mind behind smash-hit podcasts such as BBC Pressed and The Brit Box at the BAFTA’s.
Tuesday, 7th October, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
This webinar is ideal for educators, creatives, historians, and anyone passionate about cultural preservation and innovation.
Online
Paul Bridges is a multi-talented entrepreneur best known for his appearance on the hit reality series Blue Therapy. A graduate in Business Management, Paul is also a qualified personal trainer who began his career working in tech in the City. His drive and versatility later led him into the world of reality television, where he gained recognition before moving behind the camera to produce his own shows. Today, Paul leverages his diverse background to focus on marketing consultancy and mentoring, helping brands and individuals build influence and achieve sustainable growth. Host, Pilar Nalwimba is celebrated for her dynamic presence, including being crowned Best Presenter for the BBC1 Xtra podcast. She is also the brilliant mind behind smash-hit podcasts such as BBC Pressed and The Brit Box at the BAFTA’s.
Gary Gibbs
Fighting talk
Thursday, 9th October, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Tooting Library
In this collection, I aim to present you with thought-provoking poetry that traverses a wide spectrum of emotions and experiences. From the plaintive to the joyous, these poems explore the complexities of love, hate, loss, and the political landscape. Life on this earth is not always a smooth journey; we face challenges, feel lacerated by pain, and often find ourselves lamenting. Yet, prose can be a cathartic medium to express and understand these emotions.
To book contact Tooting Library on 020 8767 0543
Thursday, 9th October, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Tooting Library
In this collection, I aim to present you with thought-provoking poetry that traverses a wide spectrum of emotions and experiences. From the plaintive to the joyous, these poems explore the complexities of love, hate, loss, and the political landscape. Life on this earth is not always a smooth journey; we face challenges, feel lacerated by pain, and often find ourselves lamenting. Yet, prose can be a cathartic medium to express and understand these emotions.
To book contact Tooting Library on 020 8767 0543
Lavern Williams & Portia Louis
Hair Art Workshop
Thursday 9th October, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
A workshop encouraging children to show a reflection of their hair through artisic expression
Putney Library
Nurture Academy CIC is a Social Enterprise that works with young people and adults. They teach the Art of hair braiding and run social projects to raise awareness on Hair discrimination. Empowering and enhancing individuals to learn a life long skill.
To book contact Putney Library on 020 8780 3085
Thursday 9th October, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
A workshop encouraging children to show a reflection of their hair through artisic expression
Putney Library
Nurture Academy CIC is a Social Enterprise that works with young people and adults. They teach the Art of hair braiding and run social projects to raise awareness on Hair discrimination. Empowering and enhancing individuals to learn a life long skill.
To book contact Putney Library on 020 8780 3085
H.Uriah
Echoes of Culture
Thursday, 16th October, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Balham Library
Echoes of Culture brings stories to life through the heartbeat of the drum. This Black History Month, join us for an engaging session filled with interactive storytelling and rhythmic drumming. Families and children will journey through tales that celebrate courage, kindness, and cultural pride - an inspiring, joyful experience for all.
To book contact Balham Library on 0208 673 1129
Thursday, 16th October, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Balham Library
Echoes of Culture brings stories to life through the heartbeat of the drum. This Black History Month, join us for an engaging session filled with interactive storytelling and rhythmic drumming. Families and children will journey through tales that celebrate courage, kindness, and cultural pride - an inspiring, joyful experience for all.
To book contact Balham Library on 0208 673 1129
Helen Mcdonald
Future Groove
Friday 17th October, 6:30pm - 8:pm
Battersea Library
A musical journey through Jazz Funk soul and blues Future Groove will play classic songs and Original tunes to take you on a Jazz Funk soul musical History journey. From Billie Holiday to James Brown with Future Groove, Helen McDonald vocals and stories, Yul Emirali piano , Paul Zimmerman drums and Leslee Booth bass guitar.
Friday 17th October, 6:30pm - 8:pm
Battersea Library
A musical journey through Jazz Funk soul and blues Future Groove will play classic songs and Original tunes to take you on a Jazz Funk soul musical History journey. From Billie Holiday to James Brown with Future Groove, Helen McDonald vocals and stories, Yul Emirali piano , Paul Zimmerman drums and Leslee Booth bass guitar.
Nichola McGuire
Creative Connections: A Black History Month Card-Making Workshop
Saturday, 18th October, 11am - 12pm
This session is a great way to spend time with friends or family, kids, parents, grandparents, neighbours, all are welcome!
Wandsworth Town Library
Led by artist Nichola McGuire, founder of Eclectic Gift and creator of WomenKind, the workshop invites us to explore memory, culture, and identity through colour, collage, and illustration. Nichola’s sessions are all about connection, storytelling, and having fun together.
To book contact Wandsworth Town Library on 020 8877 1742
Saturday, 18th October, 11am - 12pm
This session is a great way to spend time with friends or family, kids, parents, grandparents, neighbours, all are welcome!
Wandsworth Town Library
Led by artist Nichola McGuire, founder of Eclectic Gift and creator of WomenKind, the workshop invites us to explore memory, culture, and identity through colour, collage, and illustration. Nichola’s sessions are all about connection, storytelling, and having fun together.
To book contact Wandsworth Town Library on 020 8877 1742
Loretta Awuah
Black entrepreneurship across Africa and the Diaspora
Wednesday, 22nd October, 11am - 13pm
York Gardens Library
Loretta Awuah is the Strategic Business Support Manager at Better overseeing our Start Up services. Loretta's passion for social and economic development and supporting entrepreneurs is also demonstrated through her role as Chair of a Board of Directors for a Community Interest Company that supports women and girls affected by trauma. An avid writer and event organiser, Loretta has written guest blogs for the Commercial Education Trust, the British Library Business and Intellectual Property Centre, and worked with award winning journalists Emily Maitlis and the Economics Editor of the Sunday Times David Smith.
Loretta's workshop will look at early examples of commerce and raising finance in Africa and the diaspora, as well as showcasing famous black entrepreneurs in Africa, the Caribbean, North and South America and the UK, before examining the current state of affairs concerning black business owners in the UK and available support.
Wednesday, 22nd October, 11am - 13pm
York Gardens Library
Loretta Awuah is the Strategic Business Support Manager at Better overseeing our Start Up services. Loretta's passion for social and economic development and supporting entrepreneurs is also demonstrated through her role as Chair of a Board of Directors for a Community Interest Company that supports women and girls affected by trauma. An avid writer and event organiser, Loretta has written guest blogs for the Commercial Education Trust, the British Library Business and Intellectual Property Centre, and worked with award winning journalists Emily Maitlis and the Economics Editor of the Sunday Times David Smith.
Loretta's workshop will look at early examples of commerce and raising finance in Africa and the diaspora, as well as showcasing famous black entrepreneurs in Africa, the Caribbean, North and South America and the UK, before examining the current state of affairs concerning black business owners in the UK and available support.
Avril Horsford
LONDON'S BLACK SOJOURNERS: Legendary Lodgers Living Next Door
Thursday 23rd October, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Putney Library
Avril Horsford has enjoyed a long career in senior positions of university education; primarily at the University of the Arts London (UAL) as a Principal Lecturer and Departmental Head, in subjects which included Art and Design, Equality and Diversity and the training of university lecturers. Avril continues her interest in education by contributing to the V&A's educational programmes; including the delivery of the popular African Heritage and history tours, whilst also leading African Heritage tours at the Tate and the British Museum.
Thursday 23rd October, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Putney Library
Avril Horsford has enjoyed a long career in senior positions of university education; primarily at the University of the Arts London (UAL) as a Principal Lecturer and Departmental Head, in subjects which included Art and Design, Equality and Diversity and the training of university lecturers. Avril continues her interest in education by contributing to the V&A's educational programmes; including the delivery of the popular African Heritage and history tours, whilst also leading African Heritage tours at the Tate and the British Museum.
Women In Business Netwowk
Standing Firm in Power and Pride
Friday, 24th October, 6:30pm - 10pm
York Gardens Library
Ms Victoria Asante is an entrepreneur and the Founder & CEO of Women In Business Support Network (WIBSN). WIBSN is an initiative dedicated to empowering and supporting women entrepreneurs through collaborative resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. With decades of experience in marketing, administration, event management, and education, Victoria is also a passionate storyteller and community activist. She currently serves as a Trustee for Sir Walter St. John’s Educational Charity.
Friday, 24th October, 6:30pm - 10pm
York Gardens Library
Ms Victoria Asante is an entrepreneur and the Founder & CEO of Women In Business Support Network (WIBSN). WIBSN is an initiative dedicated to empowering and supporting women entrepreneurs through collaborative resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. With decades of experience in marketing, administration, event management, and education, Victoria is also a passionate storyteller and community activist. She currently serves as a Trustee for Sir Walter St. John’s Educational Charity.
Lavern Williams & Portia Louis
Hair Art Workshop
Wednesday 29th October, 11am - 12pm
A workshop encouraging children to show a reflection of their hair through artisic expression
Wandsworth Town Library
Nurture Academy CIC is a Social Enterprise that works with young people and adults. They teach the Art of hair braiding and run social projects to raise awareness on Hair discrimination. Empowering and enhancing individuals to learn a life long skill.
To book contact Wandsworth Town Library on 020 8877 1742
Wednesday 29th October, 11am - 12pm
A workshop encouraging children to show a reflection of their hair through artisic expression
Wandsworth Town Library
Nurture Academy CIC is a Social Enterprise that works with young people and adults. They teach the Art of hair braiding and run social projects to raise awareness on Hair discrimination. Empowering and enhancing individuals to learn a life long skill.
To book contact Wandsworth Town Library on 020 8877 1742
Kamapala Chuckwuka
Tales from the Table: Storytelling Through the Flavours of Home
Monday 27th October, 10:30am - 11:30am
Roehampton Library
Kamapala Chukwuka is an award-winning children’s author whose stories celebrate kindness, confidence, and cultural diversity. Through her books - including the much-loved Kind Obi - she inspires children to believe in themselves, embrace positive values, and see kindness as a superpower they can carry into the world.
To book, contact Rowhampton Library on 020 8 246 6979
Monday 27th October, 10:30am - 11:30am
Roehampton Library
Kamapala Chukwuka is an award-winning children’s author whose stories celebrate kindness, confidence, and cultural diversity. Through her books - including the much-loved Kind Obi - she inspires children to believe in themselves, embrace positive values, and see kindness as a superpower they can carry into the world.
To book, contact Rowhampton Library on 020 8 246 6979
Lavern Williams & Portia Louis
Learn to braid workshop
Wednesday 29th October, 3pm - 4pm
The workshop is a comprehensive approach to teaching braiding, focusing not only on the technical skills but also on building confidence and fostering community interaction.
York Gardens Library
Nurture Academy CIC is a Social Enterprise that works with young people and adults. They teach the Art of hair braiding and run social projects to raise awareness on Hair discrimination. Empowering and enhancing individuals to learn a life long skill.
To book contact York Gardens Library on 0207 223 2341
Wednesday 29th October, 3pm - 4pm
The workshop is a comprehensive approach to teaching braiding, focusing not only on the technical skills but also on building confidence and fostering community interaction.
York Gardens Library
Nurture Academy CIC is a Social Enterprise that works with young people and adults. They teach the Art of hair braiding and run social projects to raise awareness on Hair discrimination. Empowering and enhancing individuals to learn a life long skill.
To book contact York Gardens Library on 0207 223 2341
Dominic Yoboué
Kara
Thursday, 30th October, 2pm - 3pm
York Gardens Library
Dominic Yoboué is a London-based primary school teacher and children’s author. His debut picture book, Kara (2024), encourages young readers to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate diversity through imaginative storytelling.
Thursday, 30th October, 2pm - 3pm
York Gardens Library
Dominic Yoboué is a London-based primary school teacher and children’s author. His debut picture book, Kara (2024), encourages young readers to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate diversity through imaginative storytelling.
To book contact York Gardens Library on 0207 223 2342
The Motherland Collective
Geography of Home
Thursday, 30th October, 6pm - 7pm
An immersive storytelling performance exploring the meaning of home across shifting landscapes.
Wandsworth Town Library
The Motherland Collective is a growing community of creatives committed to amplifying diverse voices through poetry, music, and storytelling. Our work is rooted in collaboration, cultural connection, and social impact.
Thursday, 30th October, 6pm - 7pm
An immersive storytelling performance exploring the meaning of home across shifting landscapes.
Wandsworth Town Library
The Motherland Collective is a growing community of creatives committed to amplifying diverse voices through poetry, music, and storytelling. Our work is rooted in collaboration, cultural connection, and social impact.
Specialists Education & Consultancy Services
Junior Culinary Explorers
Thursday, 30th October, 11am - 13pm
York Gardens Library
Experienced educationalists Janet Robertson and Sylvena Morrison (BA Hons, NPQH) will provide an interactive and inclusive session and practical cooking sessions with participants, explore everything from nutrition basics to international cuisine, including traditional African Caribbean favourites. All dietary needs and requirements are planned and catered for.
To book, contact York Gardens Library on 0207 223 2343
Thursday, 30th October, 11am - 13pm
York Gardens Library
Experienced educationalists Janet Robertson and Sylvena Morrison (BA Hons, NPQH) will provide an interactive and inclusive session and practical cooking sessions with participants, explore everything from nutrition basics to international cuisine, including traditional African Caribbean favourites. All dietary needs and requirements are planned and catered for.
To book, contact York Gardens Library on 0207 223 2343
Tribute to Alex Wheatle MBE
From Wandsworth Libraries
Wandsworth Libraries are proud to have welcomed Alex Wheatle MBE over the years, where he gave memorable author talks at branches including Balham and Battersea Library, inspiring readers and writers alike with his powerful storytelling and unwavering commitment to truth.
Born in Brixton to Jamaican parents and raised in a Surrey children’s home, Alex’s life was marked by resilience and transformation. Following a brief imprisonment after the Brixton uprising of 1981, he found solace and strength in words—writing poems and lyrics that earned him the nickname “Brixtonbard.”
Alex Wheatle’s literary achievements were extraordinary. He was longlisted for the Carnegie Medal, won the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize, and in 2008, was awarded an MBE for services to literature. His novels - Brixton Rock, East of Acre Lane, Crongton Knights, and Cane Warriors, among others - offered vivid, poetic portrayals of Black British life, capturing the voices of young people navigating complex social realities with honesty, empathy, and hope.
Beyond the page, Alex was a passionate educator, playwright, and youth mentor. He worked in schools, prisons, and literary institutions, empowering young people to tell their own stories. His life and work were celebrated in the Steve McQueen-directed Small Axe anthology, with the episode Alex Wheatle bringing his journey to a wider audience.
In 2022, the University of Sussex honoured him with a degree for his outstanding contributions to literature and social advocacy - a testament to the impact he made not only through his writing but through his tireless work in the community.
Alex Wheatle passed away on 16 March 2025, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire. His voice lives on in the pages of his books, in the hearts of those he mentored, and in the libraries where his words first found their way into the world.
Wandsworth Libraries celebrates the life and legacy of Alex Wheatle - an author, activist, and advocate whose story will never be forgotten.
Alex Wheatle Reading list
This collection in memory of Alex Wheatle MBE was compiled by Mekai Kirton while completing work experience at Wandsworth Town Library
Alex Wheatle Reading list
This collection in memory of Alex Wheatle MBE was compiled by Mekai Kirton while completing work experience at Wandsworth Town Library
Experience Black History Month through music
Celebrate the rich heritage of Black music this Black History Month. Discover our specially selected playlist on Freegal Music app, featuring iconic artists and timeless tracks that have shaped generations.
Explore the Playlist on Freegal Music
Our Partners this Black History Month
