An 'up close and personal' encounter with some exotic animals, an African-influenced dance demonstration and a talk from celebrity food expert The Black Farmer - featured in the opening event for Islington's Black History Month. <br><br>All month the contribution of African-Caribbean people to scientific discovery and innovation are being recognised at a varied programme of events designed and delivered in partnership between Islington Council, education specialists Cambridge Education@Islington and The Wellcome Trust. Black History Month (BHM), runs from 27 September to 31 October 2008. <br><br>The fun kicked off at a Family Science Fun Day Conference from 1pm - 6pm on Saturday, September 27 at New North Community School, N1. The event was attended by over 300 people.<br><br>Food celebrity and entrepreneur Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones aka 'The Black Farmer' gave an inspirational talk engaging younger residents on numerous ways to fulfill their potential. <br><br>Many of the month's activities will take place in schools, colleges and cinemas - capturing the imagination of enquiring minds for science-related subjects as broad as cookery, nature and wildlife, film making, music technology and dance and fitness. <br><br>Cllr Ruth Polling, Islington Council's Executive Member for Leisure and Equalities, said: "Islington's Black History Month celebrates the borough's diversity and is a chance to learn from one another's cultures as well as helping bring us together as a stronger community.<br><br>"This year we are showcasing the contribution of black people to science and in doing so seeking to inspire the imaginations of a new generation of Islington young people to innovate, experiment and discover their potential. <br><br>"I would encourage all residents regardless of background to come along and enjoy the varied programme."<br><br>There are ten activities, including a schools' essay competition - with two first prizes of a study trip to Jamaica – worth £2,500. <br><br>Many local restaurants are offering discounts of up to 25 per cent for meals in some of Islington's best eateries.<br><br>This year's theme of science follows on from a successful Black History Month 2007 - when the theme of freedom also marked the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade.<br><br>All events are free and everyone is welcome to attend. Copies of the BHM programme with listings are available in the reception area of council offices and libraries. Alternatively, log onto www.islington.gov.uk<br><br>ENDS <br><br>Artists featured at the opening event for Black History Month<br><br>1. KaZimba Ngoma - African Martial Arts (led by Sola Adebiyi)<br><br>2. Zoofari - mobile zoo unit featured wallabies, armadillos, pythons and a tarantula.<br><br>3. The Latin American Elderly Project - South American dance demonstration influenced by African slaves traditions.<br><br>
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009