Southside Shopping Centre will be showcasing a vibrant line-up of events that highlight creativity, culture, and heritage within the community in celebration of Black History Month this October.
On Saturday 4th October everything kicked off, with guests who were visiting the shopping centre in Wandsworth being invited to listen to the uplifting rhythms of Shumba Steelband – a 4-piece steel pan band performing live on the Piazza.
These 30-minute performances will take place at 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm, infusing the centre with joyful melodic sounds of the Caribbean, and following them, visitors will have the chance to try their hand playing a steel pan themselves and discover more about its history.
On Saturday 18th October between 1pm and 4pm, Pointe Black, a non-profit community ballet company, will perform on the North Mall – blending classical ballet with African and Caribbean influences. Pointe Black is a global movement with outreach projects spanning from South London to Guatemala, and their performance will feature excerpts from their fifth theatre production Overcome, celebrating highlights from previous storylines.
The excitement doesn’t end here though, with London-based DJ duo Ms Truths & Vibesquad Lee performing live on Saturday 18th October, from 12pm-6pm. They have specially curated a set that will feature steel pan rhythms and powerful vocals, inspired by the theme of standing firm in power and pride – a celebration of identity, strength, and community.
Ms Truths & Vibesquad
Between 20th to 25th October, Wakuda’s popular marketplace will return to Southside – infamous for championing African and Caribbean brands. Wakuda is an online and offline site that gives guests the opportunity to discover unique gifts and lifestyle products – from handcrafted jewellery, natural skincare and haircare, greeting cards, home décor, and more – all created by talented Black-owned businesses.
The market will be open from 11am-5pm and will be located on the North Mall opposite Specsavers and Poundland.
Nathaniel Wade, the co-founder of Wakuda, has been shortlisted for a BBBAward in the Consumer and Luxury Category which will be announced at the end of the month. The Thames Gazette spoke with Nathaniel and his company. For more information, click here.
Shannon Reed, Centre Director at Southside Shopping Centre, commented: “This Black History Month, we’re proud to be hosting a programme of events that celebrates the richness and vibrancy of Black culture within our community.
“From the uplifting rhythms of a live steel pan band to a diverse market showcasing Black-owned businesses and local makers, our aim is to create meaningful, joyful experiences that honour the heritage and creativity at the heart of Black History Month.
“We encourage the local community to come down, get involved, and be part of this important celebration.”
For more information, click here.
