CELEBRATIONS marking black history month took place in Slough town centre.

In collaboration with Slough BID and the Brickhouse Pub, RACExpert Limited hosted the event which brought the community together through a variety of food and local entertainment.

Families were seen enjoying the music, face painting and African and Caribbean food by Kofi Mukaase on offer at the Observatory shopping centre.

Nzinga Zee Orgill, founder of RACExpert Limited spoke to the Slough Observer about the day and what it means to them.

“Today’s really about honouring Slough’s finest in terms of that black community”, she explained. “All of the speakers, artists, performers, and caterers are all Slough based and we’re really keen and passionate in showcasing those people.

“Today is about the community, the vibrancy, the music and the food but we’re also raising the challenges that people within the black community are facing in terms of discrimination and access to opportunities.

“It’s all about bringing everyone together and we’re so lucky to have everyone here supporting us.”

As well as Slough BID, which is one of the event's main sponsors, the Brickhouse pub has been commended as being a hub within the community.

It serves as a restaurant, bar, nightclub, and live music venue but also a home from home for members of the community who often want a place to go to and talk to somebody.

Nzinga added: “Whilst it is Black History Month, whilst we are celebrating the black community, black history belongs to all of us. It’s all of our history and we play a part in shaping it and creating it.

“We’re hoping to showcase that. Yes, Slough has had some challenges but also it’s a vibrant, cultural, beautiful, rich town that’s got so much going for it and a really strong community that loves and care for it.”

A host of families from across Slough and community members were seen enjoying the celebrations in Slough Town Centre.

Abiola Omotayo, who was shopping with her family applauded the performers saying that she was having ‘a wonderful time’.

Entertainment included the Soulful Sisters, Coach Tee and a London-based DJ, Bad Anju. 

Musician and youth worker from Slough, Rebecca Richardson, said: “Living in Slough we’ve done a lot through the years in terms of black history events.

"What black history month means to me is that it’s more than a month and it should be celebrated throughout the year 24/7. Love yourself, love who you are, love everyone despite where you come from.”