An Impact x Living Free UK Collaboration
Step into the vibrant world of AfroYanga 2023, a celebration that sets hearts racing and spirits soaring! Impact teamed up with Living Free UK to create a truly remarkable event on August 18th, bringing together a community that shines bright: LGBTQ+ migrants of African descent, Asylum Seekers, and Refugees in the UK.
Behind the scenes, Impact’s very own Daniel Asaya played a pivotal role in uniting Living Free UK’s community members with Impact’s creative clients. This dynamic partnership ensured that AfroYanga 2023 was a resounding success.
A Colourful Kickoff: Networking with a Purpose
The event started with a buzz as purpose-driven charities and Impact’s creative clients joined forces. The likes of Havas London, Wilderness Agency, Smartly.io, and Omnicom Media Group came together to inspire an underrepresented but driven community to explore the creative industry.
What’s more? The enthusiasm continued with Smartly.io, Wilderness Agency, and Mother London offering Insight Experience Days, mentoring opportunities, and Wilderness offering a coveted paid internship. Dreams were set in motion!
A Night to Remember: “AfroYanga Live” Takes Center Stage
Imagine stepping into a world where cultures intertwined, and the atmosphere was charged with excitement. Around 200 attendees with VIP guests, including Dr Debbie Weekes-Bernard (Deputy Mayor of London for Communities & Social Justice), Rev. Jide Macaulay (Founder of House of Rainbow), Anna Gonzalez (Deputy Head of Immigration, Wilson Solicitors), Aderonke Apata (Founder, African Rainbow Family), Moud Goba (National Manager, Micro Rainbow) and other prominent LGBTQ+ activists, illuminated the event. The host for the night was the incredible Itty Bawa (@ittybawa).
The big screen came alive with “14 Years & A Day,” a captivating Nigerian film that sparked conversations. The Directors, Uyaiedu Ikpe-Etim(@uyaiedu) and Ayo Lawson(@ayo_l), then took the stage for a lively Q&A session that added a touch of magic to the night.
Empowerment in Action: Speeches & Workshops
Jules, our Co-Founder, shared a heartfelt message about Access, Equity, and Inclusion within the media and creative sectors. The journey of Impact’s ED&I commitment, since winning The Heart of the City, Lord Mayor’s Dragon Award in 2017, was a testament to their dedication.
This message resonated with attendees and sparked meaningful connections and pathways to a brighter future. For those seeking inspiration from this journey and commitment, we encourage you to read Jules’ full speech on our website.
The empowerment continued with Sarah Cairney, our Associate Talent Partner, leading an engaging workshop on nailing job interviews and crafting stellar CVs. Practical insights that lit up the room!
Grooves, Laughter, and Unity
As the night deepened, the rhythm of Africa enveloped the space. Talented artists like Lanre (@lanreworld), Mr Wesley Dykes (@mrwesleydykes), and Babatunde Tribe (@babatundetribe) brought the stage to life, infusing the atmosphere with unforgettable melodies. And who could forget the lip-sync showdown that left the winner Tola Kareem (@tolakareem_) clutching £100 in triumph.
A Promise for Tomorrow: Impact’s Unwavering Commitment
AfroYanga 2023 was more than an event; it was a pledge of unity and change. Impact’s dedication to ED&I echoed through every moment, sparking connections and forging pathways to a brighter future.
A special thanks to Kushal Bajpai, Vicky Jiang, Amy Clarke, Sarah Hiraki Liam Hynes Zsófi Török Jeanette Welsh Sydney Keighrey for joining and supporting AfroYanga this year.
Join the Movement for Change
Want to be part of a movement that’s creating waves? Reach out to our EDI Talent Partner, Daniel Asaya, at daniel.asaya@impact-london.com to stay tuned for more chapters in Impact’s ED&I journey.