Impact Report (Phase 1)
Impact Report (Phase 1) April 22, 2026 Impact Reports Rise Through Our Roots – Impact Report (Phase 1)...
Successful Launch Event
Rise Through Our Roots is a community-led cultural programme delivered by Luton & Beyond CIC. The launch event took place in Luton, bringing together a diverse audience to celebrate African heritage, foster connection, and build momentum towards the African Cultural Centre (ACC).
The event exceeded expectations, with over 40 attendees participating, surpassing the original target. A high-quality guest speaker delivered an engaging and thought-provoking session, contributing to a meaningful and impactful experience for all attendees.
The event brought together a multi-generational and diverse audience, creating a rich and inclusive environment. Participants engaged in dialogue, learning, and cultural exchange, strengthening community ties and encouraging wider participation across Luton and surrounding areas.
The programme reached audiences beyond Luton, with attendees travelling from nearby towns including Dunstable, Houghton Regis, and Bedford. Promotion through local radio stations, social media, Eventbrite, and community networks contributed to strong visibility and engagement.
The event generated interest and support from key local stakeholders, including Step Forward Luton, Luton Rising, Luton Council, Luton BID, Luton Culture Trust, and Luton Council of Churches. These early connections have opened pathways for future collaboration.
A targeted outreach strategy helped maximise engagement. The event was promoted through Diverse FM and Inspire FM, supported by social media campaigns, Eventbrite listings, and grassroots community outreach through WhatsApp groups.
Rise Through Our Roots forms part of a broader vision to establish the African Cultural Centre (ACC) in Luton. This future space will serve as a hub for culture, education, creativity, and community development, supporting long-term impact and growth.
The launch event has provided a strong foundation for future programme development. The level of participation, engagement, and stakeholder interest demonstrates clear demand and positions the initiative for continued growth and long-term success.
Growing Partnerships & Support
The second Rise Through Our Roots event, titled Resilience & Liberation, took place in Luton and continued to build on the success of the launch event. The programme focused on African heritage, community cohesion, and strengthening support for the African Cultural Centre (ACC).
A total of 37 attendees participated in the second event, demonstrating continued public interest and a growing appetite for African cultural programming in Luton. This reflects strong repeat engagement following the initial launch.
The event attracted attention beyond expected audiences, including visiting Ghanaian women police officers who expressed encouragement and support for the initiative. This highlighted the programme’s increasing visibility and international relevance.
Local MPs from Luton were invited to engage with the programme, with two expressing support for the community cohesion benefits of the African Cultural Centre. This marks an important step in strengthening political and civic backing.
New collaboration opportunities emerged as venue operators offered spaces for future activities, and organisations such as the East African Community Association showed interest in working together. Community and stakeholder engagement continues to expand.
The second event confirmed that Rise Through Our Roots is gaining traction within the community. Attendance remained strong, credibility increased, and new partnerships began to form. The initiative is moving from a successful launch into sustained growth.
The continued success of the programme strengthens the case for establishing the African Cultural Centre (ACC) in Luton as a permanent space for culture, education, collaboration, and community development.
Rise Through Our Roots is no longer a one-off event but a growing movement. With strong attendance, increasing support, and expanding partnerships, the programme is building meaningful momentum towards creating a lasting cultural legacy in Luton.
We are proud to work alongside organisations committed to culture, community development, and youth empowerment. Their support helps us deliver impactful programmes across Luton.













Explore updates, reflections, and stories shaping the Rise Through Our Roots movement.
Impact Report (Phase 1) April 22, 2026 Impact Reports Rise Through Our Roots – Impact Report (Phase 1)...
Rise Through Our Roots Addressed by Buddhdev Pandya 2026 April 22, 2026 Please find attached a short extract...