We are delighted to have delivered our first Cornerstone Project: Cultural Networking during COVID-19 Zoom Storytelling and Calypso Project 2020. We know that this is a difficult time for many especially in terms of contact with families and having the day to day conversations.   The aims of the Cornerstone Project was to support the over 50’s and elders from the African and Caribbean community in the West Midlands and to engage and network using Zoom technology as a platform for communication.  This creative cultural project enabled the participants to share their experiences and memories in a safe online space. We had so much fun and laughter with opportunities to make new friends, share stories and develop creativity. We supported the group with overcoming technical barriers and working with Zoom. It has been wonderful watching the Cornerstone participants confidence and creativity grow over the past four weeks.  

 

We are looking forward to releasing the COVID-19 Calypso track which came from the Cornerstone sessions.  You will also have a chance to see the completed COVID-19 creative writings from each of the members. We will be looking at raising funds for our 2021 Nakuona event where the Cornerstone participants will be a key feature.

 

We are proud to be part of documenting such an important time in history concerning the Black population in the United Kingdom and we look forward to this project being part of the Black archives reflecting the lived experience within the West Midlands.

 

We would like to thank the National Lottery Community Fund, Perry Barr Arts Forum, Black Arts Forum (BAF), Birmingham City Council and Nakuona for their support with the Cornerstone project and we look forward to its growth in the near future.