Enfield Caribbean Association Supplement

ENFIELD CARIBBEAN ASSOCIATION: MARKS 40 YEARS OF COMMUNITY, CULTURE AND

Special Feature

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In 1986, Allen founded Enfield Caribbean Association, establishing it as a charity dedicated to advocacy, cultural celebration, and practical community support. His leadership earned him the honour of being named a Freeman of Enfield in 2007, an accolade that recognised his contribution to education and community life. Allen passed away in 2019, but his legacy remains at the heart of the ECA’s mission.

A MODEST START

Alongside Allen stood John La Rose, the Trinidadian publisher, activist, and founder of the renowned New Beacon Books in Finsbury Park. With the support of La Rose and a network of local volunteers, ECA quickly became a lifeline for African-Caribbean families navigating life in Enfield during a period when institutional structures often overlooked their needs.

The organisation’s earliest operations were modest. Working out of a Portakabin in what is now Asda car park in Edmonton Green, Enfield, north London, Allen offered informal advocacy and advice. As word spread,

Dear Friends,

so did demand. The operation soon evolved into a structured support network, helping with housing issues, benefits, social care, and navigating local services.

In the 1990s, ECA launched one of its most influential initiatives: Enfield Caribbean Supplementary School. At a time when Black children were frequently underestimated within mainstream education, the supplementary school played a vital role in boosting academic attainment and cultural confidence. Teachers, including Allen himself, delivered English and Maths tuition to children aged seven to eleven. The school ran every Monday for more than a decade. Many of its pupils went on to achieve professional success, a testament to the volunteers who nurtured them.

Community House, Enfield, became home to ECA’s vibrant Thursday Coffee Morning, which offered companionship and conversation for local residents. The Association’s Drop-in Advisory Service, staffed by dedicated volunteers grew into one of its most relied upon services, operating five days a week at its peak

It is a privilege to serve as Chair of Enfield Caribbean Association as we enter our 40th anniversary this year. I am grateful to collaborate with a dedicated team of talented trustees and volunteers who are committed to ECA’s mission. Over the past year, we have achieved many successes, including ongoing support for our community’s most vulnerable members. Our weekly luncheon club for elders, held on Fridays, continues to thrive—providing companionship and opportunities for social interaction.

In January 2025, we launched the Black Film Club in collaboration with Dugdale Arts Centre, where we showcase films that highlight Black talent and stories, from timeless classics to contemporary hits, while fostering inspiration and unity.

A small charity with big ideas

and remains essential for residents needing personalised support.

FOOD AND FELLOWSHIP

Health and wellbeing have long been central to ECA’s programming. Its gentle Exercise Classes have been led by a variety of instructors. The classes offer far more than fitness, they create connection and community for people who might otherwise feel isolated.

Food and fellowship have also played a key role. ECA’s much loved Luncheon Club, held every Friday, has been a cultural and social anchor for older members of the Caribbean community. Volunteers helped create an atmosphere of warmth, laughter, and shared heritage.

Over the years, records of the organisation’s work were housed at Community House, Enfield, north London. When rising costs forced the office to close in 2019, many of these archives were lost, a reminder of the often-fragile nature of community memory. This loss fuelled a renewed commitment to oral history.

In 2022, the ECA published its first book, Windrush Voices: 20 Stories

Last year, we secured funding to further develop ECA. This enabled us to appoint a Senior Charity Coordinator, Alfa Balde and a Luncheon Club Coordinator, Davina Bailey. Their expertise will help us expand programmes, pursue new projects, increase funding, and reach more people in the community. Together, we aim to enhance outreach, strengthen existing initiatives, and respond to evolving community needs.

We continue to build partnerships with local organisations, such as the Caribbean and African Health Network (CAHN), which strives to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities for Black Caribbean and African communities. As a member of London Inspire, I helped plan the 2025 Health Summit at QE2 Hall in Westminster, attended by more than 500 delegates; the event featured prominent speakers and workshops covering key health topics. We also support Reach Society, participating in their annual Careers Conference every April, and work alongside the Enfield Black Community Health Forum, which offers informative monthly sessions on a variety of health subjects. I extend my heartfelt thanks to our trustees, associate trustees, and volunteers, whose dedication allows us to provide essential services, reduce isolation, and strengthen Black and global majority communities.

If you wish to become a member or volunteer with ECA, or want to make a donation, please visit our website at: https://theeca.org.uk/get-involved/ or contact us at: info@theeca.org.uk.

Oveta McInnis

Chair & Trustee at ECA

of Determination and Triumph, capturing powerful narratives from African and Caribbean individuals whose lives shaped modern Britain. The book inspired an 80 minute documentary film and a an illustrated children’s book, Windrush Wonders: Tales of Travel and Triumph, released in 2023 to mark the 75th anniversary of the Empire Windrush’s arrival at Tilbury Docks, Essex in1948.

CELEBRATING OUR HERITAGE

These publications became part of the wider Windrush Voices Project, which includes an exhibition of artefacts and photographs, school lesson plans, a stage play inspired by the life of Cislin Parry, one of the people featured in the original book, dramatic monologues performed at Millfield Theatre, Enfield, and podcasts exploring individual life stories.

The Association has also marked key historical anniversaries. In 2011, it commemorated the bicentenary of the abolition of the North Atlantic Slave Trade by installing a plaque at Community House, with copies displayed at Enfield’s Civic Centre and

Edmonton Green Library.

More recently, in January 2025, ECA launched a Black Film Club, offering monthly screenings of culturally rich films for both adults and children. Its growing attendance reflects the continued appetite for cultural spaces that celebrate Black stories and heritage.

Leadership has been another important thread in ECA’s evolution.

Over the decades, successive trustees and organisers have steered the organisation through changing social landscapes, ensuring it continues to meet the needs of the African-Caribbean community while welcoming the wider public.

As ECA celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, it stands not only as a community organisation but as a testament to resilience, unity and Caribbean pride. What began with Ken Allen’s vision has grown into a living, thriving network of teachers, volunteers, organisers, and supporters who continue to write the next chapter of this remarkable story.

And its story is far from over.

THE WINDRUSH VOICES: ECA’S CREATIVE AND EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES

interviewed for ECA’s Windrush Voices film

(Left) Evadney taught in northern Nigeria for nearly 20 years in 1960s-70s, among her female students

The Dugdale Arts Centre Wednesday 22 April, 7pm

Milestones: Streets Paved with Gold Friday 15 May, 7pm

My Fathers Shadow Wednesday 24 June, 7pm

Windrush Voices: Stories of Determination and Triumph

In 2022, ECA’s commitment to oral history took a leap forward with the release of its first book: Windrush Voices: 20 Stories of Determination and Triumph.

This publication brought together powerful narratives from African and Caribbean individuals, capturing their journeys of resilience. The book inspired a documentary film and later a children’s version, Windrush Wonders: Tales of Travel and Triumph, released in 2023 to mark the 75th anniversary of the Empire Windrush’s arrival at Tilbury Docks, Essex in 1948. The children’s book was so successful its launch was featured on BBC London news.

The Windrush Voices Project spawned creative and educational initiatives designed to celebrate and preserve the stories of the Windrush generation.

The project includes several distinct elements, each contributing to a deeper understanding of the experiences and impact of individuals from this significant period in British history.

A central feature is the Windrush Voices documentary, an 80-minute film capturing personal narratives and vital historical context. The film gives a platform to those who lived through the era, ensuring their stories are recorded for future generations.

The Windrush Voices Exhibition showcases artefacts, photographs, and testimonies, offering visitors an immersive experience that brings to life the journeys and contributions of the Windrush generation.

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ECA Luncheon Club

The ECA Luncheon club provides a Caribbean lunch, an opportunity to socialise, games and an age-appropriate exercise class in a warm, safe, welcoming environment.

FRIDAYS AT GREEN TOWERS COMMUNITY CENTRE, 7 PLEVNA ROAD, EDMONTON GREEN N9 0BU from 12pm to 3pm.

(Next to Edmonton Green Shopping Centre).

For more information: info@theeca.org.uk or 07908 600420

Special Feature A

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To further support learning and engagement about the Windrush generation, ECA developed Windrush Voices: Windrush Teaching Resources for Secondary Students. Educational lesson plans are available on the Times Educational Supplement website, helping teachers introduce students to the history and legacy of Windrush.

Windrush Voices has also inspired a play produced by Enfield-based JaZanne Arts. The play focused on the life of Cislin Parry, one of the people featured in the book, as well as monologues based on Windrush stories performed at Millfield Theatre, Enfield. Complementing these are podcasts focused on the lives of Martha Brutus and Lavasky Joseph, two more people featured in the first book, providing more insight into the diverse experiences and enduring legacies of community members.

ECA has visited schools and libraries across London with the authors of Windrush Voices and Windrush Wonders, together with contributors of those books. The children gained a deeper understanding of the Windrush generation’s experiences, as told directly by the individuals in the books. Through engaging discussions and storytelling, they learned about the historical and cultural significance of the Windrush era. These visits have also inspired young people to explore their own heritage, encourage reading and creative writing.

With more than 100+ hours of film recordings and sound files, and stunning photography from the Windrush era, ECA will be looking to develop new ways to remember and teach about the contributions of this unique generation of people. So, watch this space.

ERAISING ASPIRATIONS IN ENFIELD SCHOOLS

nfield Caribbean Association is committed to helping schoolchildren in Enfield make the best use of their talents. That is why since 2017 ECA has held careers days in local primary and secondary schools, bringing the message of hard work, ambition and aspiration.

The purpose of our careers days is to raise the aspirations of our youngsters by introducing them to professionals and successful workers from backgrounds like theirs, that they may not normally have the opportunity to meet and so open their minds to new possibilities.

Each year in the schools, ECA brings together a range of young professionals and successful workers from African, Caribbean, Asian and other ethnic backgrounds to tell the children about their work and their own career journey to their current positions.

WORKSHOPS

Many of our young professionals have grown up in the same or similar areas to the schoolchildren, making them highly relatable to the youngsters.

ECA assembles a wide range of workers including doctors, vets, accountants, marketing specialists, entrepreneurs, hairdressers, mechanics, footballers and influencers, thus giving the youngsters a broad sweep of careers

40TH ANNIVERSARY STATEMENT: ENFIELD CARIBBEAN ASSOCIATION

As Patron of the Enfield Caribbean Association, it is a profound honour to celebrate the 40th anniversary of an organisation whose roots, values, and achievements stand as a testament to the remarkable legacy of the Windrush Generation. Today, we pay tribute not only to four decades of community service but to the courage, resilience, and cultural strength of the men, women, and families who journeyed from the Caribbean to Britain in search of opportunity, dignity, and belonging.

The Windrush pioneers laid the foundations upon which organisations like the ECA were built. They arrived with hope and determination, often facing discrimination, hardship, and social exclusion. Yet, despite the barriers placed before them, they created vibrant communities, nurtured cultural pride, and carved out spaces where Caribbean identity could flourish. Their sacrifices and contributions are woven into the very fabric of British society such as the NHS to transport, from politics to sport, from faith communities to the arts.

For forty years, Enfield Caribbean Association has carried forward this spirit. Through advocacy, education, cultural programmes, and community support, ECA has ensured that the voices and experiences of Caribbean people in Enfield are heard, valued, and celebrated. The Association has been a lifeline for generations offering friendship to the isolated, opportunities to the young, empowerment to families, and dignity to

elders who paved the way.

As we commemorate this milestone, we also recognise the ongoing work to challenge inequality, confront the injustices highlighted by the Windrush Scandal, and protect the rights and heritage of Caribbean communities across the UK. ECA’s commitment to social justice, intergenerational connection, and cultural expression remains as vital today as it was in 1986.

To the founders, volunteers, members, partners, and supporters who have shaped this extraordinary journey: thank you. Your dedication embodies the best of who we are. May the next forty years be guided by the same resilience, unity, and hope that define the Windrush legacy. Together, we continue the story.

that they may never have considered before.

The youngsters meet each worker in small groups and also engage in personalised workshops in larger groups. Past workshops have covered veterinary services, app design, poetry and writing.

We also try to include a motivational speaker to add a rousing high-energy element to the day.

The students always respond excellently to our careers days. They and their teachers invariably

feedback how useful they find the days.

TThese careers days are always an uplifting and fun part of the ECA calendar, which are truly valued by the schools, that’s probably why they keep coming back for more!

If you would like ECA to facilitate a Careers Day at your school, then contact us by email: info@theeca.org.uk

A small charity with big ideas

MESSAGE FROM MAYOR OF ENFIELD

Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Enfield Caribbean Association is a truly special and deeply meaningful moment for me.

As the first Black Caribbean Heritage Mayor, I feel an immense sense of pride and connection in recognising an organisation that has been at the heart of our community for four decades.

Enfield Caribbean Association is more than just an organisation, it is a home, a voice, and a source of strength for generations of Caribbean people in Enfield.

RESILIENCE

It represents our shared history, our resilience, and the determination of those who came before us to build

something lasting for future generations.

I honour the Association not only as Mayor, but as someone who understands the importance of that legacy and the impact it continues to have on our lives today.

VALUES OF UNITY

Over the past 40 years, the Association has uplifted countless individuals and families. It has created spaces where our culture is celebrated with pride, where young people can feel a sense of belonging, and where the values of unity, respect, and community are lived every day.

This work does not go unnoticed—it is deeply valued, and it has made a lasting difference.

What makes this milestone

so powerful is not just the years, but the people behind it—the dedicated volunteers, leaders, and community members whose passion and commitment have kept the Association strong.

Because of you, the spirit of the Caribbean community in Enfield continues to thrive.

CONGRATULATIONS

This anniversary celebrates not only what has been achieved, but what is still to come. I am proud to stand alongside you in this moment, to honour your work, and to thank you for all that you have done on behalf of our community. Congratulations on 40 remarkable years. Your legacy continues to inspire, uplift, and unite us all—long may it continue.

The Enfield Caribbean Association is one of Reach Society’s closest community partners; and we send you a heartfelt congratulations on your 40th anniversary of service to the Black community in Enfield.

Reach Society was founded in 2010 to inspire young people across the UK to develop their potential. We do so via large events across the country.

Download the free Reach Society app to keep up with all that the Society is doing to inspire young people, with the support of many firms and role models.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SHARE YOUR TIME OR SKILLS WITH ECA

Volunteering is not just a generous act; it is the cornerstone of community-led progress. At ECA, volunteers play an instrumental role in helping us reach our strategic goals, from creating inclusive spaces to promoting wellbeing among our elders and fostering cultural pride.

Supporting weekly programmes

We are always seeking volunteers to assist with our weekly luncheon club, an initiative designed to bring elderly local men and women together for a nutritious two-course meal, social connection, and gentle exercise. By helping us to organise, serve, and facilitate these gatherings, volunteers ensure that our elders feel valued and remain active within the community.

Building social connections

Our volunteers do more than serve meals—they spark conversations, bridge generational gaps, and cultivate a sense of belonging. The companionship and laughter shared during these sessions are vital to combatting loneliness and enhancing mental wellbeing among older members of the African Caribbean community in Enfield.

Advancing health and wellbeing

Through their commitment, volunteers help us deliver health-promoting activities, from weekly group exercise to health events and conferences. Their support enables us to host events that encourage physical activity and empower

Congratulating

Enfield Caribbean Association on 40 years

Tet Paul Nature Trail is one of the most iconic trails the island has to offer. The views from our familyowned trail have been described as absolutely heavenly. From the majestic Pitons to the far away islands of Martinique and St. Vincent, you can see it all from points along the trail. The gorgeous southern side of St. Lucia from stairway to heaven including Jalousie Bay is easily visible along the way. You can even see Fond Gens Libre, Choiseul, Maria Island, and Vieux Fort while on the Tet Paul tour.

For a crash course in what makes Saint Lucia so special, the Tet Paul Nature Trail takes some beating. It offers a unique insight into the lives of the island’s original Amerindian people, with stops at a traditional dwelling house and cassava hut, plus expert knowledge about the island’s exotic plants and their medicinal properties.

everyone to maintain healthy lifestyles, directly contributing to our strategic aim of improving wellbeing.

Promoting Culture and Heritage

Volunteers help keep African Caribbean traditions alive. Whether it’s through sharing stories, organising cultural celebrations, or simply being present, they play a fundamental role in celebrating our heritage and passing it on to younger generations. Every year, we organise Windrush Day and Black History Month celebrations. Join us to help shape and deliver these future events.

Raising career aspirations in schools

We aim to raise the aspirations of the students by introducing them to a range of mentors from a wide range of professions, businesses and careers. We regularly organise career days at schools where pupils meet the volunteer mentors individually in small groups. They are also able to engage in personalised workshops in larger groups. The workshops have covered poetry and writing, computer app design, technology, veterinary services, financial services and sport amongst others. The feedback from students and staff at the schools has always been extremely positive.

Empowering the community

Volunteering with ECA is a two-way street. While volunteers give their time and talent, they also gain meaningful experiences, new friendships, and the satisfaction of knowing they are making

a tangible difference. This mutual empowerment aligns with our broader strategic vision of a thriving, connected, and resilient community.

Join us in making a difference

If you are passionate about serving our community, enjoy enriching conversations, and want to see ECA flourish, we invite you to join our

Tet Paul Nature Trail

team of dedicated volunteers. Your involvement is vital to helping us deliver on our mission and achieve our strategic priorities—together, we can continue to build a stronger, more vibrant community for everyone.

Sign up here! https://theeca.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer/

ATTRACTIONS:

Breathtaking 360° panoramic view

The Famous Antique House

Sustainable Organic Farm

Picnic Area to enjoy lunch

St. Pierre Point wedding venue

St. Pierre Point (wedding venue)

St. Lucia’s newest wedding venue offers a heavenly match for couples in love. Set

stunning views of the Pitons, this

ECA - A SMALL CHARITY WITH BIG IDEAS

ECA was formed 40 years ago, however the ambitions remain the same. To serve as a community hub supporting African and Caribbean individuals and groups in four key areas:

• Education and Health

• Community, Cultural Esteem and Economic Empowerment

• Supporting the Community

• Social Justice

Education and Health

African Caribbean students in Enfield have historically faced educational challenges, including lower attainment and higher exclusion rates. ECA works with parents and schools to improve performance, and support young people’s self-esteem and identity. The community also experiences higher rates of certain health conditions, such as diabetes and sickle cell. ECA partners with local health organisations to raise awareness and connect individuals to care.

Community, Cultural Esteem and Economic Empowerment

ECA builds cultural esteem through social skills and awareness use UK

events. The Black Film Club is open to all, showcasing Black talent and stories through great films, monthly, at Dugdale Arts Centre, located in Enfield Town. From classics to new hits, we curate movies to inspire and bring people together.

Social

Justice

programmes, aiming to boost confidence across generations. Planned activities include inter-generational events to strengthen cultural identity, resilience, and reduce isolation, while promoting understanding among service providers.

Supporting the Community

ECA provides a range of services for elders, including a weekly luncheon club with meals and activities, outings and exercise classes. It also supports students through Careers Days and youth-focused

ECA advocates for social justice by monitoring and challenging policies in health, and the legal system. As members of the Stop and Search Community Monitoring Group (CMG), ECA, works to improve fairness in policing, aiming to reduce disparities between ethnic groups. Active community involvement and engagement in local politics remain a priority for ECA.

Get involved with ECA

There are several ways for individuals to participate in and support the ECA’s work. Whether you are looking to volunteer your time, attend community events, or contribute your expertise, ECA welcomes involvement from people of all backgrounds who wish to help enrich the African and Caribbean community in Enfield.

Celebrate the spirit of Windrush

ECA invites you to explore the rich history, resilience, and triumphs of the Windrush generation thought two

• Become a member. Membership is £12 for the year www.theeca.org.uk/membership

• Join our mailing list / contact us by email: info@theeca.org.uk

• Volunteer your time or expertise / www.theeca.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer/

• Donate www.theeca.org.uk/donate

WHEN ASKED, “WHAT WAS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF JAMAICA?”, THERE’S ALWAYS MORE THAN ONE ANSWER. FROM CLIMBING WATERFALLS TO SIPPING COCONUTS, IT’S ALL ONE BIG ADVENTURE.