Bridging the Gap: Connecting Afrikan Communities in Oxford and Beyond

Bridging the Gap: Connecting Afrikan Communities in Oxford and Beyond

In a world that often emphasizes divisions and differences, it is refreshing to see initiatives that focus on bridging gaps and fostering connections. One such initiative is the Nsromma Blackstar project, which aims to bring together Afrikan communities in Oxford and Afrikan-Caribbean students from Schools, Colleges, and Universities. Centred around a vibrant and colorful outdoor educational centre floating on the serene waters of the river in central Oxford.

Nsromma Black Star acts as a meeting point, where Afro-Caribbean students and members of the grassroots Afrikan-heritage communities can come together, engage in meaningful dialogue, and build connections.

The essence of this initiative lies in its commitment to providing educational resources, critical networks, and alternative knowledge production. Nsromma Black Star serves as the Glocal Academy Posuban site for International Network of Scholars and Activists for Afrikan Reparations (INOSAAR) in Oxford, offering a hub for the dissemination of information and resources.

So, how can we bridge the gap and connect Afrikan communities in Oxford? Here are a few examples, thoughts, and tips:

1. Foster dialogue and exchange: Encourage open and honest conversations between members of our communities. Create spaces where they can share their experiences, ideas, and indigenous knowledge.

2. Embrace cultural diversity: Celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Afrikan communities by organizing events, workshops, and performances that showcase their traditions, music, dance, and art.

3. Collaborate on projects: Encourage collaboration between Afrikan-Caribbean students and Afrikan community members on various projects, such as research initiatives, community development programs, or artistic endeavours. This will not only foster connections but also create opportunities for learning and growth, taking away the individualism from Institutionalised Eurocentric pedagogies.

4. Knowledge production: Collaborate on the production of educational resources for democratisation and widening access to information. Through the INOSAAR GAPs we are harmonising knowledge sharing and commoning knowledge production across the world!

5. Open up doors between our Elders and our upcoming young minds: Opening opportunities for guidance and support, particularly for those who may be facing challenges that are not easily addressed by other Oxford institutions.

The Nsromma Blackstar project is a shining example of how we can bridge gaps and connect communities. By embracing diversity, fostering dialogue, and providing educational resources, we can move towards Afrikan empowerment and true independence. Let us all join hands in this endeavour and work towards a future where connections and understanding prevail. Forwards Ever!