November 11, 2022
From the moment l arrived at the hotel there was a buzz in the atmosphere, everyone who came was greeted and made to feel welcome at the reception of the hotel lobby with love, care and respect. Everyone was given their name tags without fuss or confusion, all the stewards there to help and support the guests were very professional in their roles.
I was honoured to take part in the conference as a guest Windrush poet/actor to open this high profile-event. The poem ‘Streets Paved with Gold – tribute to my mother’ from my book ‘Poetry Trilogy’ I recited was well-received by attendees and seemed to set the tone for the event, followed by a series of speeches and workshops for the morning sessions.
This was all followed by an excellent fabulous exclusive lunch including exquisite deserts, sweets pallet served with a verity of hot and cold drinks and other light snakes throughout the day. This quality lunch definitely helped to prepared everyone for the tough productive discussions and debates in further workshops that took place later in the afternoon.
The event created a platform where all parties from all sides could meet on a level playing field in a safe comfortable space were we can all listen to everyone’s point of view no matter what the difficulties or how challenging it maybe, everyone was treated with respect and dignity whilst holding up the integrity of the Legacy of the Windrush generations.
It’s my hope that future Windrush International Conference stays in the Midlands area as it is central in the country, making easy access especially the venue Aloft Hotel was a very good location as it’s close from the motorway, their services were excellent including food. It’s more affordable compared to London when it comes to hotels and parking for everyone. The atmosphere created at the event simply put everyone at ease.
It’s my honest opinion this is one of the best Windrush event in the last twenty five years l have attended as l have been touring nationally and internationally with my Windrush plays, poetry educational workshops and inspirational talks for all age groups, this is definitely one of the most prestigious well organised Windrush events fit for purpose l have ever attended, I’m so impressed with the outcomes throughout the whole day from start to finish.
l rang the Chair Bishop Dr Desmond Jaddoo the next day to offer my services of my Windrush plays and poetry to come and support their events in the future for FREE of charge as long as they cover expenses and agree to market endorse my presentation in the event l would be appearing in.
I look forward to supporting other events in the future.
