Standing Firm in Power & Pride

“Standing Firm in Power & Pride” is the pillar of Black History Month 2025. This theme celebrates the strength, confidence, and unwavering commitment of the Black community. It highlights the contributions of Black leaders, activists, and pioneers who have shaped history, and it looks forward to future empowerment, unity, and growth within the community.

This Black History Month, HTA’s BLACC group brought together talents from within the studio to curate a series of events, open to all, with the intention of encouraging education, celebration, and pride.

Our catering teams across our studios treated us with delicious foods representing African and Caribbean cultures.

Bianca Baidoo hosted a, African Lino Printing workshop that explored the bold visual language of Ghanaian Akan symbols. Guiding the team through the meanings and history of these symbols, Bianca taught the group how to make characterful lino print tiles, with everyone producing a bright and vivid tea-towel or tote bag to take home. To accompany this crafty evening, Stephanie Warner treated us to homemade sorrel (rum optional).

HTA colleagues also attended a local event hosted by Hackney Carnival legends Gahu Dramatic Arts for a showcase of Ghanaian drumming and dancing before heading to Shoreditch for a Caribbean dinner. BLACC@HTA also held a lunchtime Fireside Chat, bringing members of the group together for reflection and celebration of our special community.

We also took the opportunity to signpost some of the incredible, Black History Month events and exhibitions happening locally to all our studios.

Thanks to BLACC for creating an inspiring month for us here at HTA.