A Day of Celebration and Connection

A Day of Celebration and Connection at the Rosebowl, Leeds  

In April 2024, I was thrilled and honoured to be invited to join an inspiring research event for black mothers and daughters at the Thorpe Park Hotel near the Rosebowl at Leeds Beckett University, led by Shirlecca Ward, and Surrounded by a community of incredible women, I felt an immediate sense of unity and purpose as we gathered to celebrate, share, and learn from one another. 

As both a facilitator and a researcher for the workshop, my role was to guide discussions and foster meaningful connections among participants. It was deeply rewarding to see us opening up, sharing our experiences, and drawing strength, tears, laughter, and healing from the collective wisdom of this group of brilliant women. The conversations flowed naturally, touching on topics like love, racism, stigma, family, education, traditions, cultural heritage, personal growth, and empowerment. Together, we created a space for honesty, vulnerability, and mutual support—a space where our stories could be seen and honoured. 

Then, on October 29th, we gathered once again at the Rosebowl, and this time, the evening held an even deeper resonance. Fathers, husbands, and partners joined us, standing beside us to honour the powerful roles that mothers and daughters play in shaping our community. Seeing them there, sharing in the joy and significance of this initiative, underscored just how essential family and community are in everything we do. Their presence, their love, and their support added a profound sense of unity and purpose to the evening. 

And let’s not forget the delicious meal catered by Chantelle Davis! Her thoughtful menu brought everyone together over a beautiful, shared meal that added warmth and celebration to the night. The food nourished us as much as the conversations did, making the event feel even more like a family gathering. 

As I reflect on these gatherings, I feel deeply grateful for this experience and for everyone who attended. 

 Thank you to Shirlecca Ward and her team at Leeds Beckett University for organizing such a soul-enriching event. Here’s to many more nights that bring us together to celebrate our journeys as mothers, daughters, families, and a community.

Thank you to Shirlecca Ward and Research team at Leeds Beckett university, as well as everyone who attended and contributed to making this event  and this celebration so impactful. I left the Rosebowl feeling deeply moved, proud, and grateful to be part of such a vibrant, supportive community. Here’s to many more gatherings that celebrate our journeys as mothers, daughters, and advocates for change.