Black History Month 2024

Black History Month at 78zin

As part of our Black History Month celebrations, 78zin’s Black & Mixed Heritage Voices Group organised a Taste of Heritage event, inspired by this year’s theme of Reclaiming Narratives. As well as a Q&A with guest speaker Chloé Bertrand, team members took part in a quiz, bingo challenge and potluck with Afro-Caribbean dishes.

Chloé Bertrand is the founder , a web-based knowledge and resource hub of the African continent that provides accessible quality resources on African topics. We chatted to Chloé about the inspiration behind the platform, its future impact and what the theme Reclaiming Narratives means to her.

Spotlight on:

Chloé Bertrand

What inspired you to start a not-for-profit dedicated to creating an encyclopedia on African history and culture?

Growing up in South Africa to a French father and a Ghanaian mother, I was always interested in learning about my African heritage, but I noticed that there was a bias in the availability of information. After high school, I had the privilege of studying at The School of Oriental and African Studies, where I had access to one of the best libraries for African resources — a privilege that I recognise was possible due to my ability to afford to go to university in London. This made me want to create a resource where I could address the many challenges to learn about the continent: relevant resources are often scarce, inaccessible, prohibitively expensive, or lacking an authentic African perspective on Black history. I started by posting my research and eventually developed the website. In hindsight, I think it was also the political climate during the COVID-19 pandemic that propelled me. Unfortunately, the events that followed the Black Lives Matter movement really gave me the impetus to take that first step.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in documenting and gathering information for your encyclopedia?

African history has traditionally been shared orally, which makes it difficult to access resources. Oral history, while rich and dynamic, can be challenging to reach as it is held by certain members of a community or lost through generations. Another challenge is the erasure of oral and written history by colonial narratives that either dismissed or misrepresented African achievements and histories.

Beyond history, how do you see this work impacting the future?

For me, recording history is about more than documentation; it’s about reshaping the narrative in a way that fosters self-love and a stronger sense of identity. By reclaiming our stories, we empower future generations with a deeper sense of self and a renewed vision for the future, particularly in areas like politics, culture, and identity. This work allows us to build pride in our past while inspiring a more inclusive, self-defined future.

Reflecting on your journey so far, what does Reclaiming Narratives mean to you personally?

Reclaiming Narratives means having the power and agency to tell our own stories authentically. Building afrorama has given me a sense of empowerment in shaping how African history is presented, emphasising African voices and perspectives rather than relying on narratives shaped by others. It’s been a transformative experience that has connected me even more closely to my heritage, while challenging my own assumptions along the way.

What advice would you give to aspiring historians, writers, or activists who want to reclaim and share stories of African heritage, but may not know where to start?

If not now, when? If not you, who? It’s never too early, or too late, to begin. Start small; even a single story or connection can grow into something significant. Moreover, remember that you are likely not alone in your passion. Seek out communities of like-minded individuals and collaborate. There’s truth in the saying, if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together. Pooling resources and knowledge with others can amplify your impact, helping to bring these stories to a wider audience.

What is one action or initiative you would encourage people to take in their own lives or communities to further the work of reclaiming narratives and preserving African history?

One powerful action I would encourage is to use Black History Month (October) as a time for meaningful action, not just reflection or celebration. It’s an ideal opportunity to actively engage in reclaiming and preserving African history. Stay curious — talk to your family, learn from their stories, and explore resources online that centre African perspectives. Supporting initiatives dedicated to African history and culture is also key. By backing these projects, whether through sharing, funding, or participating, people can help ensure that our narratives are preserved and celebrated for future generations.

Learn more...

Africa Jobs Board

Part of afrorama, is an accessible jobs board that provides Africa-based and Africa-related impact opportunities.

The Africa Centre

The is a forward-thinking, inclusive, and respected cultural institution that promotes positive conversations about Africa. They are celebrating 60 years this year.

Africa No Filter

is an advocacy organisation that is shifting stereotypical narratives about Africa by partnering with individuals and organisations that care about how the world sees Africa and how Africa sees itself.

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Visit some of our favourite Black-owned and Black-author bookstores in and around London.

Afrori Books, Brighton

The home of Black authors and stories, Afrori offers a curated selection of books that span genres and generations. If you’re looking for the latest bestsellers, classic works, or hidden gems, Afrori provides a welcoming space for readers and writers alike.

Lolwe Books, Peckham

Lolwe Books is a Black-owned independent Pan-African bookstore that specialises in books by Black authors. As an indie bookshop, their careful and intentional curation ensures that their books represent the widest range of Black writing that is often largely ignored by mainstream stockists and bookstores.

New Beacon Books, Finsbury Park

New Beacon was the UK’s first Black publisher, specialist bookshop and international book distributor. Founded in 1966, it specialises in Black British, Caribbean, African, African-American and Asian literature.

Round Table Books, Brixton

An inclusion-led bookshop selling books for every reader, Round Table Books celebrates underrepresented authors, writers and illustrators by curating and stocking books from the widest variety of publishers possible.

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