Around 800 people attended the Kaleidoscope Festival on Saturday, many of whom were residents from the Aylesbury Estate, and were joined by the mayor and deputy mayor of Southwark, as well as local councillors Jack Buck and Martin Seaton.

Neil Coyle, MP for Old Southwark and Bermondsey also came along to join the fun.

Activities on the day included:

• Live music, dance, and acrobatics
• Food from across Africa and the Caribbean
• Face painting
• Performances from Inspire and the Elephant and Castle Community Hub
• Community and small businesses stalls

The event was delivered in partnership with St Peter’s church and Inspire who do amazing work in bringing together the community of Walworth and Aylesbury, as well as our contractors Hill and Vistry Partnerships.

It ties into the Southwark Stands Together strategy which works to promote diversity in Southwark. It was a perfect opportunity for locals (and non-locals) to come together and experience Aylesbury’s diverse community.

Lorraine Gilbert, head of communications and resident involvement for Notting Hill Genesis’ Aylesbury team – and chair of the Kaleidoscope Festival – said: “It was a fantastic day, and everyone had so much fun enjoying the best of African and Caribbean culture. People are already asking whether we will hold the event again next year. It was lovely to see so many residents from the Aylesbury community come along too.

“Thank you to everyone who helped us make the event such a success.”

On behalf of us all at Notting Hill Genesis, thank you to everyone who helped, supported, showed up, and had a great day with us this weekend. Make sure to keep an eye out for upcoming events celebrating diversity and culture.