By Ndumiso Tshuma
The Black Business Art Music Festival (BBAM), a celebration of Black history and culture, took centre stage in Southampton, United Kingdom, in September 2024, marking the largest Black History Month event in the South.
This vibrant festival, organised by the United Voices of African Associations (TUVAA) and supported by various Black-led organisations, aimed to address inequalities while amplifying the visibility and voices of local Black businesses, artists, and performers.
Tsepiso Khumalo, Vice Chairlady of TUVAA, said the event stemmed from the organisation’s desire to expose Black businesses and artists, as they are often overlooked in this predominantly white community.
“The festival featured numerous local Black businesses showcasing their products, while artists had the opportunity to display their talents in an inclusive and celebratory environment,” said Khumalo.
Khumalo noted that the festivities began with a solemn gathering at the cenotaph, where attendees paid their respects to fallen heroes from the First and Second World Wars, acknowledging the significant contributions of Black individuals who served in these conflicts.
“Chief Ndiweni delivered a poignant speech at the cenotaph, setting a reflective tone for the day’s events. The gathering at the cenotaph was a moment to pay respects to the fallen heroes who fought in the First and Second World Wars,” Khumalo said.
Reflecting on the community’s roots, Khumalo explained that the idea for the festival originated from Zimbabweans coming together as a community, especially during times of grief, highlighting the isolation often felt within the country.
“We then decided to reach out to other African communities, starting with the Gambians, followed by Ugandans and Nigerians joining us. This festival aimed to include all Black communities, particularly those from the Caribbean islands,” Khumalo added.
Highlighting the festival’s rich cultural offerings, Khumalo mentioned a featured film titled The Chameleon and the Fly, which honoured King Lobengula’s struggle against colonial forces attempting to seize his land.
“This film served to educate attendees about important historical figures in the fight for Black rights and recognition,” Khumalo stated.
One of the primary objectives of the BBAM Festival is to showcase Black talent. Khumalo emphasized that this year, the festival provided a platform for local Black artists, musicians, and businesses to present their work, further addressing systemic inequalities.
“We engaged the community through art exhibitions, African and Caribbean food, live music performances, poetry, storytelling, a fashion show, cultural performances, a carnival parade, an army parade, film screenings, and interactive workshops,” she explained.
Khumalo also highlighted the festival’s focus on economic empowerment, stating that BBAM aims to attract visitors to Southampton’s city centre, fostering economic growth and prosperity for all.
“TUVAA is dedicated to creating a lasting legacy by building a network of support for artists and businesses throughout the year. The TUVAA and BBAM teams will continue to strengthen relationships with local institutions, schools, and organizations in the city,” she added.
Khumalo underscored that the BBAM Festival represents an opportunity to celebrate the community’s rich culture, support Black businesses, and empower artists.
“As the BBAM Festival unfolded, it promised to be a landmark event that not only celebrated the cultural richness of the African, Caribbean, and Black British communities in Southampton but also fostered unity, empowerment, and recognition in a city eager to elevate its diverse voices,” Khumalo concluded.
