2022: The Impact Of St Pauls Carnival
LaToyah McAllister-Jones, Executive Director of St Pauls Carnival, looks back at the successes of 2022 as we publish our annual Impact Report.
Having just returned to the office after a restful festive season, I'm in a space that I often find myself in at this point in a new year; looking forwards and backward at the same time. 2023 will be a big year for St Pauls Carnival; we've had a 'busy pandemic', adapting how we deliver, creating new partnerships, and diversifying our offer. 2023 will be an exciting year for us as we take forward the learning and creativity triggered by the last few years.
The pandemic has been a challenge for everyone, there's no doubt about that. Although life appears to have returned to 'normality', we live in far less certain times now. I am excited about the year to come – the possibilities and opportunities – but am also aware of the challenges that lie ahead. That being said, one of the biggest lessons I take away from these past few years is get lemons, make lemonade! Some of my personal highlights from 2022:
Back A Yard – Our adapted community programme celebrating the food, music and arts of Carnival was a highlight for me. The programme started with a celebration of our Elders and ended with a celebration of the community's talent and creativity. Hosting Horace Andy and General Levy is one for the ages!
A Taste of Carnival – Our 1st Gala Dinner raised over £20,000 and was a fantastic event featuring Tan Taddy and Da Fuchaman. It was a great team effort and something I am tremendously proud of, providing an opportunity for fundraising and engaging existing supports as well as potential new partners. I was honoured to host Barbara Dettering and Dawn Hackett as our guests.
Growth of the education programme – Our education programme has gone from strength to strength during the past few years. Going into schools to talk about St Pauls Carnival, leadership and raising aspirations of young people was a real pleasure. A highlight of last year's success was our new teacher training prorgamme in collaboration with Aisha Thomas and Representation Matters. Over 400 teachers were supported last year. This is a great achievement that will continue to have real impact.
Inna Wi Carnival: Reflections Of A Generation – Our film celebrating the legacy of our Elders has been a big hit. Premiering on Carnival day last year, it is a beautiful journey exploring the memories of Carnival in the Caribbean and the evolution of St Pauls Carnival. Our film closed the Encounters Film Festival in October as a sold out event, including a panel discussion and performances. I am looking forward to entering this piece into international film festivals and sharing the story of our Elders and St Pauls.
Despite the challenges, I am very proud of the team's achievements and the impact St Pauls Carnival continues to have in our city. Wishing you all a productive and prosperous 2023.