Cllr Sabrina Francis on Black History Month in Camden

Our theme for this year is Reclaiming Narratives, which focuses on uncovering untold stories and highlighting the activists, leaders, and changemakers who have had a lasting impact on our borough.

Simon & Francis by Norman Kaplan (Image: Steve Russell Studios) Running until December, this vibrant programme is packed with exhibitions, films, talks and music, all designed to bring our community together in recognition of the significant contributions black people have made to Camden and the UK.

I was fortunate enough to speak at the launch of this season with the Mayor of Camden, Cllr Samata Khatoon.

It was a truly special event with breath taking performances by Artistry Youth Dance and Melodic Janelle. We also heard from incredible organisations like Black Owned London, Grass Roots Arts Studios, Film Africa and Camden's Black Workers Group who continue to make a profound impact on the community.

Cllr Sabrina Francis spoke at the launch of Camden's Black History Season (Image: Crispian Blaze/Camden Council) It was just the start of what promises to be an inspiring few months and I am going to make sure I can get to as many events as I can.

From the Unknown Soldier exhibition, which honours the contributions of black servicemen and women in the World Wars, to the All Shall Be Afforded Dignity exhibition that marks 30 years of democracy in South Africa.

But this isn’t just a celebration of the past - it’s also about engaging with young minds to shape our future too. Families and children will create poems in 37 Poems to Inspire which will form part of a collection which aims to encourage confidence and positivity.

Young people can learn about Africa’s diverse languages, food and traditions (Image: Camden Council) We’re also hosting a series of Explore Africa! workshops for families across Camden’s libraries, where children and adults alike can learn about Africa’s diverse languages, food and traditions.

For those who are after something a little different, our supper clubs will showcase the rich culinary traditions of the Caribbean and Africa, complete with live music and poetry.

This is a season for everyone with most events free and proceeds from Camden Council ticketed events going to support The Black Curriculum – a social enterprise that teaches Black British History in and out of schools to young people across the UK.

I encourage you all to come along, learn something new, and celebrate the rich, diverse heritage that makes Camden such a special place.

Visit lovecamden.org/blackhistoryseason for the full programme.

• Cllr Sabrina Francis is cabinet member for Jobs, Young People and Culture at Camden Council.