Not for Profit
Published: June 28, 2021 | Updated: 29th June 2021
A £15,000 grant has been awarded to AFRO*Disiac Live Radio CIC by BCP Council to deliver the Bournemouth Reggae Weekender from July 30 to August 1.
It will be the area’s first ‘Reggae in the Park’ event and is described as a unique occasion for residents and families to celebrate the diverse African-Caribbean culture in the local community.
The weekender is partnered with the University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity.
It will dedicate the first day of the event to praising the effort of NHS frontline workers across the BCP area, especially during the pandemic.
Once on-site, ticket-holders will be able to dive into a vast array of traditional African-Caribbean entertainment and participate in activities that celebrate reggae in its entirety.
Attendees will also be able to enjoy poetry, storytelling, dance workshops, food demos, dancers, and even a funfair.
There will also be artisan traders, African clothing, Kente designs, craft stands featuring traditional wooden art, and much more.
The festival is a not-for-profit venture but requires sustainable business success so an entrance fee is being charged.
Tickets cost £10 for adults and £20 for families.
The fee includes a free complimentary shuttle service from Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole by partners Yellow Buses to ensure ease of access to the event.
Julia Hanlon, Station Broadcast Assistant for AFRO*Disiac Live Radio, pictured left, said: “We’re delighted to receive this grant which will go towards supporting our Bournemouth Reggae Weekender festival this July.
“As a local, this feels like a very significant moment in celebrating Bournemouth’s rich cultural diversity.
“This festival sets to mark a momentous occasion in reconnection, love, and togetherness as we navigate out of these trying times.
“We value this opportunity to celebrate our local NHS heroes, to honour them for their brilliant hard work, resilience, and commitment through the pandemic.
“We are overwhelmed by the generosity of our sponsors and we express volumes of gratitude towards them and the BCP Council for their support.
“This festival will be a catalyst in unifying artists, businesses, and the community and we know its reach is set to be far and wide.”
Afro*disiac Live Radio CIC is a not for profit organisation and a Community Interest Company founded in 2012.
Cllr Philip Broadhead, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economy at BCP Council, said: “Following a competitive application process, we are pleased to award this grant to Afro*disiac Live Radio.
“This project is just one of many innovative initiatives that our latest package of discretionary business support will now bring to life.
“It will contribute towards Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole’s reputation as a place where businesses can continue to flourish and grow.’’
