Black History Month: How can we represent your community in research?

Dancing, games and some fine cooking have been at the heart of two community events in Andover and Southampton celebrating Black History Month.

A team from the Long-term Conditions Research Group based at the University of Southampton have been mixing with the visitors at two events and encouraging people from African and Caribbean communities to get more involved in health and care research.

Linda Amungwa from the School of Health Sciences is studying for a PhD and is interested in how people from different communities view research, and why certain groups are so under-represented. She was joined by colleagues, Kate Lippiet and Carolyn Fitton.

Linda said:

"It is vital to build trust and foster meaningful relationships between researchers and the public. We had a fantastic time at the event, with Carolyn serving as the judge for the Jollof Rice competition and me showcasing my culture and heritage through dance and games. I also had the pleasure of teaching some dance steps to attendees at the Andover event, which created a joyful and engaging atmosphere."

Linda (centre), Carolyn (left) and Kate (right) at the BBAM (Black, Business, Arts and Music) Festival in Southampton organised by The United Voice of African Association (TUVAA) Hampshire.

The event in Andover was organised by Heritage and Hope Andover.

Linda is hoping that more and more people from the Asian, Black and Caribbean communities will sign up to get involved in research, and a number of people have joined our patient and public involvement team.

Linda was lucky to be interviewed for That's Solent TV:

Linda Amungwa spoke to That's TV

And if your would like to get in touch with Linda to get involved in her research you can email her at lla1d20@soton.ac.uk

Notes for researchers:

For more details about what the Long-Tem Conditions research group does see their web page here