Families from across Chapeltown have come together for a memorable afternoon of fun, food and community spirit organised by Leeds-based BME housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise in partnership with the Reginald Centre.
The Unity in the Community family fun day was officially opened by the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Stephen Holroyd, who spent time meeting stallholders, chatting with residents and learning more about the wide range of organisations providing support and opportunities for local people.
The celebration was made possible by Leeds City Council's Inner North East Community Committee matching Unity Homes and Enterprise's financial contribution.
Visitors had the chance to connect with a variety of community groups and service providers, including Unity staff, the Reginald Group’s Connect Men’s Group, Realigned AP, which supports young women and girls in Leeds who have struggled in mainstream education, the Feel Good Factor Men's Group, Mama's Time to Talk, and the ever-popular Leeds Libraries Story Bus.
Residents were also able to access information provided by Leeds Black Elders Association and chat with Chapeltown Neighbourhood Forum, who were carrying out an extensive community consultation.
The day also offered plenty of practical support with Leeds Bike Mill providing free bike servicing, helping local cyclists to get their bikes roadworthy and ready for late summer adventures.
Meanwhile, the Yorkshire Cricket Foundation assisted young people in sharpening up their bowling and batting skills, while Leeds Youth Service kept children entertained with a selection of inflatables and West Yorkshire Police brought along a selection of mini uniforms for the kids to dress up in.
Food and drink proved to be a major highlight. Local entrepreneur Sugar Shane was joined by Unity tenant entrepreneurs Mirae Mocktails, SoSo Sorrells and Queenie's Treats who served up a delicious selection of authentic Caribbean cuisine, sweet treats and refreshing, healthy drinks.
Adding to the festival atmosphere, local barber and DJ Eddie from Sensation Sound kept the music playing throughout the afternoon, creating the perfect soundtrack for a joyful community gathering.
Children and parents alike got involved in a range of activities, from lawn games to an impromptu skipping session that quickly evolved into a fiercely contested tug of war between the girls and boys. After a determined performance, the girls claimed an impressive victory and were delighted to enjoy the spoils from Unity's sponsored prize box.
The event itself was inspired by feedback from local residents. Unity Homes tenant and Reginald Centre employee Sharon Campbell first suggested the idea after residents at a focus group expressed a desire for more family-focused activities during the summer holidays. Throughout the afternoon, she could also be found applying colourful temporary tattoos for children and a few adventurous adults.
Creative activities also played a prominent role in the day. Children decorated masks in preparation for the upcoming Chapeltown Carnival and painted pebbles for the Chapeltown Rocks community project. Residents have been encouraged to keep an eye out around the neighbourhood for these colourful treasures as they begin to appear in parks, gardens and community spaces.
Rhiannon Oliver, Unity Homes and Enterprise Customer and Community Lead, said: “The Unity in the Community Family Fun Day demonstrated the power of partnership working and community-led ideas.
“Bringing together local organisations, businesses, residents and families, the event provided valuable information, practical support and plenty of opportunities to have fun.
“Most importantly, it strengthened community connections and created lasting memories for everyone who attended.”
Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “A big thank you to all the partners, volunteers, stallholders and residents who helped make the event such a success.
“In particular, I would like to pay tribute to the Lord Mayor, for giving so much of his time, and Sharon Campbell who acted as the key link between Unity and the Reginald Centre in bringing the event together.
“The day showcased the tremendous talent, enterprise and vibrancy for which Chapeltown is renowned.”